27583, Timberlake, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27583, Timberlake, North Carolina is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.00 percent of the residents in 27583 has some form of health insurance. 28.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.58 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 27583 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,918 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27583. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 998 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,554 health care providers accessible to residents in 27583, Timberlake, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Timberlake, NC (ZIP Code 27583)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Timberlake, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27583) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers not only the direct availability of medical professionals but also the supporting infrastructure crucial for comprehensive patient care, ultimately resulting in a 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment. This score, though not numerically presented here, reflects the relative strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any breast cancer care system rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Timberlake, being a relatively small community, likely faces challenges in this regard. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for initial screenings and referrals. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, potentially improving early detection rates and overall patient outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, when combined, can help estimate this ratio. Furthermore, the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often provide primary care services, must be factored into this calculation.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Practices that prioritize preventive care, including regular breast cancer screenings (mammograms) and patient education, are highly valued. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a significant factor. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between providers, reducing the risk of diagnostic errors and improving care coordination. Practices that actively utilize EHRs for patient outreach, such as sending reminders for screenings, demonstrate a commitment to proactive patient management.

Once a potential breast cancer diagnosis arises, timely access to specialists becomes crucial. This includes oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists. The proximity of these specialists to Timberlake is a key consideration. While the town itself may not have these specialists, the accessibility of nearby cities, such as Durham or Raleigh, where comprehensive cancer centers are located, is essential. Travel time, transportation options, and the availability of appointment slots all contribute to the overall score. The presence of established referral pathways between PCPs in Timberlake and these specialist centers is also a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption presents another vital aspect. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists, particularly for follow-up appointments or discussing test results, can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce travel burdens. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and can enhance the overall score. Furthermore, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, providing access to expertise that might otherwise be unavailable.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological toll of a diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be substantial. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or women's health is highly desirable. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, receive a higher score. This integration demonstrates a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Standout practices within the Timberlake area, or those serving its residents, are those that excel in multiple areas. This might include a primary care practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, a strong focus on preventive care, and established referral pathways to specialized cancer centers. Another example could be a practice that has fully embraced telemedicine and offers mental health support services. Identifying these standout practices requires a detailed review of practice websites, patient testimonials, and potentially, interviews with local healthcare providers.

The presence of community resources also contributes to the overall score. Support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and access to financial assistance programs can significantly ease the burden on patients. These resources provide emotional support, practical guidance, and access to financial aid, which can be critical during treatment and recovery. A community that actively supports breast cancer patients receives a higher score.

In conclusion, evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in Timberlake (ZIP Code 27583) demands a comprehensive assessment. The availability of PCPs, the quality of primary care, access to specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of community resources all contribute to the overall 'Breast Cancer Score'. While this analysis provides a framework for understanding the local healthcare ecosystem, a detailed, data-driven assessment is essential for a truly accurate evaluation.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Timberlake and surrounding areas, including the location of medical practices, specialist centers, and community resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic, data-rich view of the healthcare infrastructure, allowing you to visualize key metrics and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.