27818, Como, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27818, Como, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.31 percent of the residents in 27818 has some form of health insurance. 69.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.69 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 27818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 309 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 393 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 160 health care providers accessible to residents in 27818, Como, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Como, NC (ZIP Code 27818)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 27818, focusing on the town of Como, North Carolina, and the surrounding area. We will examine primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources – all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape and its capacity to support individuals navigating the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. Como, a small rural community, presents unique challenges in this regard. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the initial point of contact, conducting screenings, providing referrals, and coordinating care. The availability of PCPs in Como and the surrounding areas directly impacts the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. Low PCP-to-patient ratios can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and potentially, a poorer prognosis for those at risk. Assessing the current ratio requires a thorough review of physician directories, population data, and patient surveys to accurately gauge the existing demand versus supply.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the knowledge and experience of PCPs in recognizing early signs of breast cancer, their willingness to discuss risk factors, and their proficiency in performing or ordering necessary screenings like mammograms. The presence of practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness and provide comprehensive preventative care, including patient education and support, is highly desirable. Identifying standout practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing practice performance metrics (where available), and evaluating the range of services offered, from routine checkups to specialized cancer prevention programs.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within the 27818 ZIP code is a critical factor. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, provide access to second opinions, and enable ongoing monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The availability of telemedicine options can significantly reduce the burden on patients, eliminating the need for long travel distances to access specialized care. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine requires identifying local healthcare providers who offer virtual consultations, evaluating the technologies they employ, and determining the ease of access for patients.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive care. This includes the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. These resources can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. Evaluating the availability of mental health services requires identifying local mental health providers, assessing their experience in oncology, and determining the availability of support groups and other resources. The integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan is a key indicator of a well-rounded approach.

Physician-to-patient ratios in the 27818 ZIP code are likely to be a significant factor in the overall score. Rural areas often face shortages of medical professionals, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to specialized care. The ratio needs to be evaluated in conjunction with the availability of specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, who are essential for diagnosis and treatment. Proximity to larger medical centers in neighboring cities, such as Greenville or Raleigh, can mitigate some of the challenges posed by limited local resources, but travel time and transportation costs remain significant considerations.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This might involve a focus on early detection, a patient-centered approach to treatment, and the integration of supportive services like nutrition counseling and physical therapy. Identifying these practices requires a detailed review of their services, patient outcomes, and community involvement. Practices that actively participate in research, offer clinical trials, and provide comprehensive patient education are particularly valuable. The presence of certified breast centers, which meet specific quality standards, is another positive indicator.

The adoption of telemedicine, as previously mentioned, is crucial for improving access to care. The availability of virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and online support groups can significantly enhance the patient experience. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies demonstrate a commitment to innovation and a willingness to adapt to the evolving needs of their patients. Evaluating the telemedicine landscape involves assessing the types of services offered, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of these technologies into the overall care plan.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological impact of a diagnosis and treatment can be profound, and access to qualified mental health professionals is essential. Assessing the availability of these resources involves identifying local therapists, counselors, and support groups, and evaluating their experience in oncology. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a key indicator of a well-rounded approach.

In conclusion, the breast cancer score for Como, NC, and the surrounding 27818 ZIP code will be influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall assessment. A comprehensive analysis requires a detailed investigation of each of these areas, incorporating data from various sources and considering the unique challenges and opportunities presented by a rural healthcare environment. The ability of the local healthcare system to provide timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive support services is paramount to improving outcomes for individuals affected by breast cancer.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area, including the location of healthcare providers, access to specialists, and availability of resources, we recommend exploring the CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a dynamic and informative view of the healthcare ecosystem, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare options.