27703, Durham, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27703, Durham, North Carolina is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.24 percent of the residents in 27703 has some form of health insurance. 30.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.34 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 27703 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14,441 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27703. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,619 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 47,496 health care providers accessible to residents in 27703, Durham, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score: Durham, NC (ZIP Code 27703) – A Deep Dive

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Durham, North Carolina's 27703 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the availability and quality of medical professionals but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights for patients and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon accessible and qualified physicians. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in 27703 is crucial. This metric reflects the potential for timely appointments, personalized attention, and continuity of care. While precise figures fluctuate, a lower ratio (more physicians per patient) generally indicates better access. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau are essential for calculating this ratio, specifically focusing on oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast procedures, radiologists skilled in mammography and related imaging, and pathologists specializing in breast cancer diagnosis. Furthermore, the availability of support staff, such as nurse navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, significantly impacts the overall score.

Identifying standout practices is paramount. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care often exhibit several key characteristics. These include accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer, indicating adherence to rigorous standards of care. They also feature multidisciplinary teams, bringing together oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists to create individualized treatment plans. Furthermore, a strong emphasis on patient education, support groups, and access to clinical trials contributes positively to a practice's score. Practices actively participating in research and utilizing advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and minimally invasive surgical techniques, also warrant recognition.

The role of primary care availability in 27703 is undeniably critical. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for many patients, playing a vital role in early detection through breast cancer screenings and referrals. The ease with which residents can access PCPs, measured by factors such as appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and geographic proximity, directly influences the likelihood of timely diagnosis. A shortage of PCPs or significant barriers to access can lead to delayed screenings and potentially poorer outcomes. Therefore, the Breast Cancer Score must incorporate an assessment of primary care access, including the number of PCPs per capita, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, and the patient's ability to establish a strong patient-physician relationship.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in the context of cancer care. Its adoption in 27703 is a significant factor in our analysis. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services remotely, reducing the burden of travel, especially for those undergoing treatment. The availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, genetic counselors, and therapists can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and patient portals for communication and information sharing, will receive a higher score. The quality of the telemedicine platform, including its ease of use, security features, and integration with electronic health records, also contributes to the overall assessment.

Beyond the physical aspects of treatment, the emotional and psychological well-being of breast cancer patients is paramount. The Breast Cancer Score must include an assessment of the availability of mental health resources. Cancer diagnosis and treatment can trigger anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services is crucial for supporting patients throughout their journey. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, will be highly rated. The availability of support groups specifically designed for breast cancer patients, as well as resources for managing stress and coping with the emotional impact of the disease, are also important factors.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – will result in a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score for 27703. This score provides a snapshot of the current state of breast cancer care in the area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. Regular updates to this score, based on evolving data and healthcare trends, are essential to ensure its continued relevance and usefulness.

The Breast Cancer Score is not simply a numerical ranking; it's a tool to inform patients, empower healthcare providers, and drive improvements in the delivery of care. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem, we can work collaboratively to enhance access, improve quality, and ultimately, improve outcomes for those affected by breast cancer.

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