27701, Durham, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27701, Durham, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.39 percent of the residents in 27701 has some form of health insurance. 31.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.56 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 27701 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,709 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27701. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,104 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 47,128 health care providers accessible to residents in 27701, Durham, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Durham, NC (ZIP Code 27701) & Primary Care

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care quality and primary care availability within Durham, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 27701 ZIP code. The goal is to evaluate the landscape for patients, examining physician resources, innovative approaches, and supportive services. This information is crucial for informed healthcare decisions and promoting accessible, high-quality care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on the availability and expertise of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs play a critical role in early detection, screening referrals, and ongoing patient management. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within 27701 provides a baseline understanding of access. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be utilized to calculate this ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per PCP, generally suggests better access to care. However, this is a simplified metric. It doesn't account for factors like practice size, insurance acceptance, or the specific needs of a population.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the responsiveness of practices, the efficiency of appointment scheduling, and the integration of preventative care protocols. Practices that actively promote breast cancer screenings, provide patient education, and maintain robust communication systems are highly valued. Identifying standout practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, evaluating online ratings, and assessing the availability of comprehensive services.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas like Durham, with its concentration of academic medical centers and technology-driven resources. Telemedicine's impact on breast cancer care is multifaceted. It allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, reducing the need for in-person visits, which is especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within primary care and oncology practices in 27701 is critical. Practices that embrace telehealth technologies, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and access.

The availability of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The integration of mental health services into primary care and oncology practices is essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues, provide referrals to mental health professionals, and offer support groups for patients and their families are demonstrating a commitment to holistic care.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized breast cancer centers and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options are vital. Duke Health and UNC Health provide comprehensive cancer care in the Durham area. The presence of these facilities, offering advanced imaging technologies, surgical expertise, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials, significantly impacts the quality of care. Evaluating the proximity of these centers to the 27701 ZIP code and the ease of access for patients is essential.

The integration of technology extends beyond telemedicine. Electronic health records (EHRs) play a crucial role in care coordination and data management. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can improve communication between providers, track patient progress, and facilitate the sharing of medical information. Assessing the interoperability of EHR systems across different practices and hospitals is important for seamless care delivery.

In addition to medical care, support services play a vital role in patient well-being. These services include patient navigators, financial assistance programs, and support groups. Patient navigators help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, providing guidance and support throughout their treatment journey. Financial assistance programs can help alleviate the financial burden of cancer treatment. Support groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges.

The evaluation of breast cancer care in 27701 requires a multi-faceted approach, considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of specialized cancer centers, and the availability of support services.

The assessment of primary care availability in 27701 must also consider socioeconomic factors. The ability to access quality healthcare can be significantly impacted by income, insurance coverage, and transportation options. Understanding the demographics of the 27701 ZIP code, including income levels, insurance rates, and access to transportation, is crucial for ensuring equitable access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer transportation assistance are better positioned to serve a diverse population.

The quality of care is also influenced by the cultural competency of healthcare providers. Healthcare providers who understand and respect the cultural beliefs and practices of their patients are better able to build trust and provide effective care. Assessing the cultural competency of practices in 27701 involves evaluating the diversity of the healthcare staff, the availability of language services, and the incorporation of cultural considerations into patient care plans.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in 27701, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. By understanding the current state of care, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare, and healthcare providers can identify opportunities to enhance the quality and accessibility of care.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within the 27701 ZIP code, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a dynamic visualization of healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of care.