27616, Raleigh, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27616, Raleigh, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.11 percent of the residents in 27616 has some form of health insurance. 25.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.17 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 27616 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14,972 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27616. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,178 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21,301 health care providers accessible to residents in 27616, Raleigh, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Raleigh, NC (ZIP Code 27616) and Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the breast cancer care landscape within Raleigh, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 27616 ZIP code and the broader context of primary care availability. We aim to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician access, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health support. This analysis is intended to be informative and not a definitive ranking, as data is constantly evolving.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Raleigh, and particularly within the 27616 ZIP code, assessing primary care availability is paramount. A robust primary care system facilitates early detection through regular screenings, provides a critical referral pathway to specialists, and offers ongoing support throughout the treatment journey. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, but quality of care must also be evaluated. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be utilized to calculate this ratio for the 27616 ZIP code and compare it to the Raleigh average, as well as state and national benchmarks.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly influences the "Breast Cancer Score." Practices with a strong emphasis on preventive care, including proactive breast cancer screening protocols, are highly desirable. This includes adherence to guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Examining the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability is also crucial. EHRs streamline information sharing between primary care physicians, specialists, and patients, ensuring seamless care coordination.

Within the 27616 ZIP code, identifying standout primary care practices is a key component of this analysis. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores (obtained through surveys or online reviews), the presence of certified breast health navigators, and the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as mammography. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promoting breast cancer awareness and education, are also highly valued. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care that extends beyond the clinical setting.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in improving access to care. Its integration into the breast cancer care pathway can significantly enhance the "Breast Cancer Score." Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption rate of telemedicine within primary care practices in the 27616 ZIP code and Raleigh overall should be assessed. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video conferencing, remote patient monitoring), the technology platforms used, and the patient experience with these services.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and its treatment can have profound emotional and psychological effects on patients. Primary care practices that offer or connect patients with mental health resources significantly contribute to a higher "Breast Cancer Score." This includes access to therapists, support groups, and psychiatric services. Assessing the availability of these resources within the 27616 ZIP code and the referral pathways from primary care practices to mental health providers is essential. Practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns and integrate mental health services into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being.

The analysis should also consider the presence of specialized breast cancer centers and their proximity to the 27616 ZIP code. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, bringing together oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists under one roof. Access to these centers, including travel time and transportation options, is a significant factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." The availability of clinical trials and research opportunities at these centers is also a positive indicator, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

Furthermore, the analysis should examine the insurance landscape within the 27616 ZIP code. The acceptance of various insurance plans by primary care practices and specialists is a crucial factor in access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, ensure that a broader segment of the population can access necessary services. The analysis should also consider the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may struggle to afford their care.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for the 27616 ZIP code and the surrounding Raleigh area is a complex assessment that requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity of specialized breast cancer centers. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the breast cancer care landscape and identify areas for improvement. This assessment should be viewed as a dynamic tool, constantly updated to reflect the evolving healthcare environment.

To visualize this complex data and gain deeper insights into the geographical distribution of resources and access to care, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, providing a powerful tool for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in the 27616 ZIP code and beyond.