27577, Smithfield, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.17 percent of the residents in 27577 has some form of health insurance. 38.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.85 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 27577 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,399 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27577. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,498 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Smithfield, NC (ZIP Code 27577)**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of breast cancer care within Smithfield, North Carolina (ZIP code 27577), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their impact on early detection and management of this disease. We examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact, guiding patients through screening recommendations, risk assessments, and referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio in Smithfield is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from the U.S. Census Bureau, would provide the most accurate assessment of this ratio. A low physician-to-patient ratio is a red flag, potentially hindering timely access to care.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual physician profiles. Factors to consider include the number of female PCPs, as women may feel more comfortable discussing sensitive health concerns with a female provider. Furthermore, the practice's adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is vital. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between PCPs, radiologists, and oncologists, ensuring seamless information flow and coordinated care. Practices that actively participate in national quality initiatives, such as those focused on breast cancer screening rates, demonstrate a commitment to providing evidence-based care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in rural areas like Smithfield. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their PCPs remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations regarding screening results. The adoption of telemedicine platforms by local practices, including their ability to provide virtual consultations, is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet critical, aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the community, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. PCPs play a vital role in identifying patients who may benefit from mental health services and making appropriate referrals. The proximity of mental health professionals and the ease of access to these services are essential elements of a holistic care approach.

Beyond the immediate availability of PCPs, the broader healthcare infrastructure within Smithfield plays a significant role. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated radiology department capable of performing mammograms and other breast imaging studies is essential. The availability of specialized breast cancer care centers, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, is also critical. The proximity of these specialists to the primary care practices directly impacts the timeliness of referrals and the overall patient experience.

To assess the quality of breast cancer care, it is important to examine the screening rates within Smithfield. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the North Carolina State Health Department can provide insights into the percentage of women in the area who are up-to-date with their mammograms. Low screening rates can indicate barriers to access, such as lack of insurance, transportation issues, or a lack of awareness about the importance of screening.

Furthermore, it is important to analyze the patient experience within Smithfield. Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by local practices. These reviews can highlight areas of strength, such as compassionate care and efficient service, as well as areas for improvement, such as communication and wait times.

The presence of community outreach programs that promote breast cancer awareness and education is another positive factor. These programs can help to educate women about the importance of early detection and encourage them to undergo regular screenings. Collaboration between local PCPs, hospitals, and community organizations is crucial for the success of these initiatives.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape in Smithfield, NC (27577) is complex and requires a multi-faceted assessment. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating mental health resources are all critical steps. The availability of local hospitals and specialists, as well as screening rates and patient experience, also contribute to the overall quality of care. A comprehensive analysis will help determine the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement.

For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Smithfield, NC, including the locations of PCPs, hospitals, and specialists, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the accessibility and availability of healthcare resources in your area.