27610, Raleigh, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27610, Raleigh, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.07 percent of the residents in 27610 has some form of health insurance. 35.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.34 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 27610 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 22,812 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 36 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27610. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,570 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 23,165 health care providers accessible to residents in 27610, Raleigh, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Raleigh, NC (ZIP Code 27610)

This analysis provides a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for primary care physicians within the 27610 ZIP code of Raleigh, North Carolina, focusing on factors crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and patient well-being. The evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of resources that support optimal breast cancer care.

The foundation of a strong breast cancer score lies in accessible primary care. In 27610, a critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, reflecting the number of patients per primary care physician, directly impacts appointment availability and the ability of patients to receive timely screenings and follow-up care. A lower ratio generally indicates better access. Data from reputable sources, such as the North Carolina Medical Board and the American Medical Association, are essential to calculate this ratio accurately, factoring in both active and practicing primary care physicians within the designated area. The analysis must also account for the types of primary care practices available, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners. Each specialty offers a slightly different perspective on preventive care, and the availability of diverse specialties contributes to a higher overall score.

Beyond physician numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly influence the breast cancer score. Standout practices demonstrate a commitment to proactive breast cancer screening protocols. This includes adherence to current guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force regarding mammography frequency and age recommendations. Practices that actively remind patients about screenings, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and provide clear communication about results are highly valued. Furthermore, the presence of on-site mammography services or strong partnerships with local imaging centers streamlines the screening process and improves patient compliance. Practices that offer comprehensive patient education materials, covering topics like breast self-exams and risk factors, also contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for discussing screening results, providing initial support, and coordinating care, enhances patient convenience and accessibility. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, ensuring secure and HIPAA-compliant communication, are better positioned to serve patients, particularly those with mobility challenges or those residing in areas with limited physical access to care. The availability of virtual options also helps to bridge gaps in care, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The mental health component is often overlooked but is a vital aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Practices that integrate mental health resources, such as on-site counselors or partnerships with mental health professionals, receive a higher score. This includes providing information about support groups, therapy options, and resources for managing anxiety and depression. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns and offer referrals as needed demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

In the context of 27610, the presence of major healthcare systems like WakeMed and UNC Health, with their extensive networks of specialists and resources, can positively impact the score. The proximity to these systems, and the ease of referral to their breast cancer centers, enhances the overall quality of care available to patients. The analysis should consider the level of integration between primary care practices and these larger healthcare systems. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing and care coordination.

The analysis must also consider the demographics of the 27610 ZIP code. Factors like the prevalence of specific risk factors for breast cancer, such as age, race, and family history, should be taken into account. Practices that are culturally sensitive and provide resources tailored to the specific needs of the community will receive a higher score. This includes offering multilingual materials and ensuring that staff members are trained to address the diverse needs of the patient population.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and the evolving landscape of breast cancer care. The analysis should be transparent, clearly outlining the methodology used to calculate the score and the data sources. This transparency is crucial for building trust and ensuring the validity of the assessment.

Finally, the analysis must consider the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction, as evidenced by patient reviews and feedback, receive a higher score. This includes factors like wait times, the friendliness of staff, and the overall comfort of the office environment. Practices that actively solicit and respond to patient feedback demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for primary care physicians in 27610 is a multifaceted assessment that considers various factors, from physician-to-patient ratios and screening protocols to telemedicine adoption and mental health resources. By providing a comprehensive evaluation, this analysis empowers patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and helps to identify practices that are committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered breast cancer care.

For a visually rich and interactive map of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability in the 27610 ZIP code, we encourage you to explore the data with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, providing a valuable tool for patients and healthcare professionals alike.