27603, Raleigh, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27603, Raleigh, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.33 percent of the residents in 27603 has some form of health insurance. 24.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.63 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 27603 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,391 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 36 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27603. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,794 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,749 health care providers accessible to residents in 27603, Raleigh, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Raleigh, NC (ZIP Code 27603)

This analysis provides a nuanced perspective on breast cancer care within Raleigh, North Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 27603. It considers factors impacting care quality, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, culminating in a proposed "Breast Cancer Score" for the area. This score is not a definitive ranking but rather a holistic assessment based on publicly available information and industry best practices. The aim is to offer insights for patients seeking care and highlight areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system is the availability of qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). ZIP code 27603, encompassing a significant portion of downtown Raleigh and surrounding areas, presents a mixed picture. While the city overall benefits from a relatively high concentration of medical professionals due to its status as a major metropolitan center and home to several large healthcare systems, access within this specific ZIP code requires careful consideration. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, reflecting more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau is crucial in determining this ratio. Analyzing these data points allows us to assess the overall availability of primary care.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care profoundly influences breast cancer outcomes. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, guiding them through initial screenings and providing referrals to specialists. The presence of PCPs who are well-versed in breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and the latest treatment options is essential. This involves ongoing education and a commitment to staying abreast of advancements in the field. The "Breast Cancer Score" must therefore incorporate an evaluation of the PCP's knowledge and their adherence to established screening protocols.

Within the 27603 ZIP code, we can identify several standout practices. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive screening, and comprehensive support services. They might boast a multidisciplinary approach, integrating primary care, radiology, and oncology under one roof or through strong collaborative partnerships. They might also offer extended hours, convenient appointment scheduling, and a welcoming environment that reduces patient anxiety. These practices are crucial to the overall health of the community.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, and its adoption is particularly relevant to breast cancer care. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those who have difficulty traveling. It can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The "Breast Cancer Score" must evaluate the extent to which practices in 27603 utilize telemedicine technologies. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the use of patient portals for communication and information sharing, and the integration of remote monitoring devices.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet critical, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as counseling services, support groups, and psychiatric care, is therefore a crucial component of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. The "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the availability of these resources within the 27603 ZIP code. This includes assessing the presence of on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with local mental health providers, and the availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value but rather a composite assessment based on these factors. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each factor would be assigned a weighted score, reflecting its relative importance in the overall assessment of care quality. For instance, the availability of mental health resources might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption, given its direct impact on patient well-being. The final score would then be used to provide a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care within the 27603 ZIP code, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP code 27603 presents a complex picture. While Raleigh benefits from a strong healthcare infrastructure, the specific availability and quality of care within this ZIP code require careful evaluation. The "Breast Cancer Score" is a tool to provide this evaluation. It is a dynamic process, requiring ongoing monitoring and assessment to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Raleigh, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource distribution, we invite you to explore the power of spatial data visualization. Visit CartoChrome maps to discover a wealth of information presented in an intuitive and accessible format. Explore the data, analyze the patterns, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available to you.