27806, Aurora, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27806, Aurora, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.33 percent of the residents in 27806 has some form of health insurance. 45.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.59 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 27806 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 538 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27806. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 591 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 32 health care providers accessible to residents in 27806, Aurora, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Aurora, NC (ZIP Code 27806)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Aurora, North Carolina (ZIP code 27806) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, a critical entry point for early detection and referral, and then assess the quality of care, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' for the area, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Aurora, NC, is a crucial starting point. A low density of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for routine screenings and initial concerns. This analysis will consider the total number of PCPs practicing within the 27806 ZIP code, factoring in family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners. Furthermore, the analysis will examine the average wait times for appointments, both for new and established patients. This data provides a tangible measure of access, directly impacting the potential for early detection.

Beyond sheer numbers, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access and workload. A high ratio, indicating a large patient base per physician, can strain resources and potentially impact the quality of care. Analyzing this ratio within Aurora will reveal the potential pressure on existing PCPs, influencing the time available for thorough patient consultations, preventative counseling, and referral management. This ratio will be compared to regional and national averages to provide context and benchmark the availability of primary care services in the area.

Identifying standout practices within Aurora is essential. This requires evaluating practices based on several factors. First, the adoption of evidence-based breast cancer screening protocols, such as adherence to recommended mammography guidelines, will be assessed. This includes the availability of on-site mammography services or established referral pathways to accredited facilities. Second, the analysis will investigate the practice's commitment to patient education, including providing resources on breast cancer risk factors, self-exams, and lifestyle modifications. Finally, the practices' integration of care coordination, ensuring seamless referrals to specialists and support services, will be evaluated. Practices demonstrating excellence in these areas will be highlighted, providing a model for other providers.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, particularly in rural areas like Aurora. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. The analysis will assess the extent to which PCPs in the area offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and the use of patient portals for communication. Practices that have embraced telemedicine will be recognized for their efforts to enhance patient convenience and access to care.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. The integration of mental health resources into primary care is crucial for providing comprehensive patient support. This analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the practices or through referral networks. This includes assessing the presence of on-site counselors or therapists, or the availability of readily accessible referrals to mental health professionals specializing in oncology. The integration of mental health services will be considered a critical factor in the overall 'Breast Cancer Score'.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized breast cancer care within a reasonable distance is crucial. This analysis will consider the proximity of Aurora to comprehensive cancer centers, including access to oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and support staff. Travel time to these facilities, as well as the availability of transportation assistance programs, will be assessed to understand the practical challenges patients might face.

The analysis will also consider the role of community resources and support groups. The presence of local chapters of organizations like the American Cancer Society or Susan G. Komen, offering support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance, will be factored into the overall assessment. The availability of these resources can significantly improve the patient experience and provide crucial support during treatment and recovery.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' for Aurora, NC, will be a composite measure, considering all the factors discussed. The score will not be a simple numerical value but rather a nuanced assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the resources available to breast cancer patients in the area, offering valuable insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The goal is to identify areas for improvement and to promote the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered breast cancer care.

This analysis will not only provide a snapshot of the current situation but also serve as a baseline for future evaluations. Regular assessments can track progress, identify emerging trends, and inform strategies to enhance breast cancer care in Aurora. By continuously monitoring key indicators, healthcare providers can adapt their practices to meet the evolving needs of their patients and ensure that all residents have access to the best possible care.

Understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources is paramount. To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Aurora and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can display physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to specialized services, providing a powerful tool for analyzing and improving breast cancer care. **Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze healthcare data in your community.**