27597, Zebulon, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27597, Zebulon, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.36 percent of the residents in 27597 has some form of health insurance. 36.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.56 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 27597 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,450 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27597. An estimate of 56 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,086 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,500 health care providers accessible to residents in 27597, Zebulon, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Zebulon, NC (ZIP Code 27597)

This analysis provides a 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within and serving the Zebulon, NC (ZIP code 27597) area. This score considers factors crucial for breast cancer prevention, early detection, and overall patient support, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. The evaluation incorporates physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Zebulon, highlighting strengths and areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of a strong breast cancer care system rests on accessible and proactive primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a critical role in preventative screenings, risk assessment, and referrals. A low physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access to care. However, simply having more doctors doesn't guarantee superior quality. The analysis considers factors beyond sheer numbers, such as the integration of evidence-based guidelines, the use of technology, and the availability of comprehensive patient support.

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in Zebulon requires access to up-to-the-minute data, which is often proprietary. However, publicly available resources like the North Carolina Medical Board database, combined with demographic data from the US Census Bureau, can provide a reasonable estimate. The ratio is influenced by several factors, including the number of practicing PCPs, the size of the population served, and the geographic distribution of physicians. Areas with a higher concentration of physicians per capita typically offer better access to care, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved outcomes for breast cancer patients.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This includes consistently adhering to the latest screening guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the US Preventive Services Task Force. Practices should offer mammography screening services, or have strong referral pathways to local imaging centers. Proactive patient outreach programs, such as automated reminders for screenings, are also essential. Furthermore, practices that prioritize patient education and provide resources on risk factors, lifestyle modifications, and early detection are highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Zebulon. Telemedicine can enhance access to care by reducing travel time and enabling patients to consult with their physicians remotely. This is especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients undergoing treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, are better positioned to serve a wider patient population and improve overall patient satisfaction.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral networks with therapists and counselors, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive support, addressing both their physical and emotional needs.

The assessment of mental health resources extends beyond simply offering referrals. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns, provide educational materials on coping strategies, and foster a supportive environment are considered to be excelling in this area. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can also significantly improve patient outcomes.

In Zebulon, the availability of these resources will vary. Some practices may be part of larger healthcare systems that offer comprehensive services, while others may be smaller, independent practices. The analysis considers the overall infrastructure and the collaborative efforts within the community.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for each practice is a composite metric, reflecting the weighting of these factors. The score is not a definitive ranking, but rather a snapshot of the current state of care. The evaluation considers the following: the physician-to-patient ratio, the practice’s adherence to screening guidelines, the availability of in-house or referral-based imaging services, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall patient experience.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' for the Zebulon area is influenced by the collective performance of the PCPs serving the community. The score is not a static measure, but rather a dynamic reflection of the evolving healthcare landscape.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis reveals the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care system in Zebulon. It highlights the importance of proactive screening, the value of telemedicine, and the need for comprehensive mental health support. It is crucial to remember that this analysis is a starting point. Patients should always discuss their individual needs and preferences with their healthcare providers.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Zebulon, including detailed geographic visualizations of physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare access, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the healthcare environment.