27613, Raleigh, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27613, Raleigh, North Carolina is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.52 percent of the residents in 27613 has some form of health insurance. 18.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.95 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 27613 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 44 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27613. An estimate of 66 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,281 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 26,685 health care providers accessible to residents in 27613, Raleigh, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Raleigh, NC (ZIP Code 27613)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 27613, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility and related resources in Raleigh, North Carolina. We aim to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors critical to early detection, diagnosis, and support for patients. The analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a patient-centered approach to breast cancer care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are vital. ZIP code 27613, encompassing a significant portion of Raleigh, needs to demonstrate a strong PCP network to support this. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to appointment delays, reduced screening frequency, and a compromised patient experience. Researching the actual ratio for this specific ZIP code is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, when combined, can provide an estimate. This data, however, should be supplemented by information on the age and health needs of the population within 27613, as these factors influence demand for primary care services.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. This involves examining factors like patient reviews, accreditations (e.g., NCQA recognition), and the availability of on-site services like mammography or convenient referral pathways to radiology centers. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer patient education, and demonstrate a commitment to early detection should be highlighted. This also includes the speed and efficiency of referrals to specialists, which is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for breast cancer patients, including increased access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 27613 is a key component of the Breast Cancer Score. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the ease of use of telemedicine platforms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical factor in the overall quality of care. The Breast Cancer Score must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or related fields. This assessment should consider the proximity of these resources to primary care practices and the ease with which patients can access them. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is crucial to ensure comprehensive support for patients. This also includes the availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, where patients can connect with others facing similar challenges.

Another vital element is the patient's ability to navigate the complex healthcare system. Practices that provide patient navigators or care coordinators significantly improve the patient experience. These individuals assist patients with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment plans, accessing financial assistance, and coordinating care among various specialists. The presence of these resources within primary care practices in 27613 is a significant positive factor in the Breast Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the availability of breast cancer screening facilities within or near ZIP code 27613 is a crucial consideration. The proximity and accessibility of mammography centers, ultrasound facilities, and other diagnostic services directly impact the timeliness of screenings and the overall patient experience. Assessing the wait times for appointments, the availability of advanced imaging technologies, and the comfort and convenience of these facilities are all essential components of the analysis.

The Breast Cancer Score should also consider the diversity of the healthcare providers and the cultural sensitivity of the practices. Ensuring that patients have access to providers who understand their cultural background and speak their language can significantly improve communication, trust, and adherence to treatment plans. This includes assessing the availability of interpreters and culturally competent healthcare materials.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 27613 should be a composite metric reflecting all the factors discussed above. It should provide a clear and concise assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the breast cancer care landscape in this area. The score should be dynamic, reflecting changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health and support resources. Regular updates are crucial to maintain the relevance and accuracy of the score.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care practices, screening facilities, and mental health providers, within and around ZIP code 27613, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. They can help you visualize the data, identify areas with limited access to care, and pinpoint opportunities for improvement.