27826, Fairfield, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27826, Fairfield, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 53.74 percent of the residents in 27826 has some form of health insurance. 26.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 34.78 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 27826 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 169 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27826. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 104 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6 health care providers accessible to residents in 27826, Fairfield, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27826 & Fairfield Primary Care

This analysis examines the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 27826 and assesses primary care resources in Fairfield, aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective. This score isn't a single number but a holistic evaluation considering various factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician access, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health support. The ultimate goal is to provide insights for informed healthcare decisions and highlight areas for improvement.

**ZIP Code 27826: Breast Cancer Care Landscape**

Evaluating breast cancer care in 27826 necessitates a deep dive into the local physician landscape. The core consideration is physician-to-patient ratios. This metric reveals the accessibility of oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and primary care physicians (PCPs) who are crucial for early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to delayed appointments, potentially impacting the timeliness of crucial interventions like mammograms and biopsies. Data collection from local hospital systems, insurance providers, and state medical boards is essential to accurately calculate these ratios.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by physicians in 27826 is critical. This involves evaluating the qualifications and experience of the specialists. Are the oncologists board-certified? Do the surgeons specialize in breast cancer surgery? Are the radiologists using the latest diagnostic technology, like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis)? Researching physician profiles, reading patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and assessing affiliations with reputable cancer centers provide valuable insights.

Identifying standout practices within 27826 requires a more nuanced approach. Practices that integrate a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and support staff, often provide superior care. The availability of nurse navigators, who guide patients through the complex treatment process, is another positive indicator. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancing breast cancer research.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Does the 27826 area have physicians offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations? Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience. The availability of remote monitoring technologies, allowing physicians to track patient symptoms and vital signs remotely, would further elevate the score.

Mental health support is a vital aspect of breast cancer care, yet often overlooked. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals, or have strong referral networks to therapists and support groups, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors is another positive factor.

**Fairfield Primary Care and its Impact**

The availability of quality primary care in Fairfield directly impacts breast cancer outcomes. PCPs play a crucial role in early detection through regular screenings, such as mammogram referrals. They also serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, facilitating timely diagnosis and referral to specialists. Therefore, assessing primary care availability in Fairfield is crucial.

The physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs in Fairfield needs to be analyzed. A shortage of PCPs can lead to difficulties in obtaining timely appointments for routine checkups and preventative screenings. This can result in delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer outcomes. Data from local healthcare providers and insurance companies is vital to determine these ratios.

The geographic distribution of primary care practices within Fairfield is also significant. Are practices evenly distributed, or are there underserved areas with limited access to PCPs? This analysis should consider the accessibility of practices for residents, taking into account factors like transportation and distance.

The integration of technology in Fairfield's primary care practices should be evaluated. Do practices use electronic health records (EHRs) to efficiently manage patient data and facilitate communication with specialists? Do they offer online patient portals for appointment scheduling, prescription refills, and communication with providers? These technological advancements can improve efficiency and patient experience.

The availability of preventative services, such as mammogram referrals and breast cancer risk assessments, within Fairfield's primary care practices is a key indicator of quality. Practices that actively promote preventative care and offer comprehensive screening services are more likely to contribute to early detection and improved outcomes.

Mental health resources within Fairfield's primary care network are also important. Do PCPs have access to mental health specialists for referrals? Are there integrated mental health services within the primary care setting? Addressing mental health needs alongside physical health is vital for overall well-being.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

Assessing breast cancer care requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health support. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the landscape in 27826 and Fairfield.

To gain a more visual and comprehensive understanding of this healthcare landscape, including physician locations, access to care, and demographic data, consider utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a clearer understanding of physician distribution, access challenges, and areas for improvement. Explore the possibilities and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.