27837, Grimesland, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27837, Grimesland, North Carolina is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.33 percent of the residents in 27837 has some form of health insurance. 36.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.03 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 27837 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,554 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 105 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27837. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,978 health care providers accessible to residents in 27837, Grimesland, North Carolina.

Breast cancer care within Grimesland, North Carolina's ZIP code 27837, presents a multifaceted landscape. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of care, focusing on primary care physicians, their patient loads, and the presence of supportive resources. We'll examine the area's capacity to address breast cancer concerns, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, and access to mental health support.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on a robust primary care network. In Grimesland, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely screenings, referrals, and ongoing support. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A high ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. This can hinder early detection efforts and complicate the management of existing breast cancer cases.

Standout practices within the area may distinguish themselves through various factors. Some might prioritize preventative care, actively promoting mammograms and breast self-exams. Others might excel in patient communication, ensuring clear explanations of diagnoses and treatment options. The presence of patient navigators, who guide individuals through the complex healthcare system, can significantly improve the patient experience. These navigators assist with scheduling appointments, understanding insurance coverage, and connecting patients with support groups.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical area. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations regarding test results, offers significant advantages. Telemedicine can improve access to care for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. Its convenience can also encourage more frequent check-ins, potentially leading to earlier detection of any changes. The availability of telemedicine platforms within Grimesland's healthcare practices needs careful evaluation.

Beyond medical treatment, the availability of mental health resources is vital. A breast cancer diagnosis can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups is crucial for patients to cope with these challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This integration can involve on-site counseling, referrals to mental health specialists, or the promotion of support groups.

The quality of breast cancer care in Grimesland is not solely determined by the number of physicians or the availability of technology. It also hinges on the coordination of care. Effective communication between PCPs, specialists (like oncologists and surgeons), and other healthcare providers is essential. This coordination ensures that patients receive comprehensive and well-managed care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and other communication tools are better equipped to facilitate this coordination.

Furthermore, the responsiveness of healthcare providers to patient needs is a significant factor. Practices that actively solicit patient feedback and use it to improve their services demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. This feedback can be gathered through surveys, patient advisory councils, or other mechanisms. The willingness to adapt and evolve based on patient input is a hallmark of a high-quality healthcare system.

Another crucial aspect is the accessibility of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients face financial hardship. Practices that are knowledgeable about and can connect patients with financial assistance programs, such as grants, co-pay assistance, and payment plans, play a vital role in ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent patients from receiving necessary care.

Assessing the availability of specialized breast cancer services is essential. This includes access to diagnostic imaging, such as mammography and ultrasound, as well as the availability of breast surgeons and oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to Grimesland residents can significantly impact the speed and convenience of care. The presence of a local cancer center or affiliation with a larger regional cancer network can improve access to advanced treatments and clinical trials.

The level of health literacy within the community is also important. Practices that provide patients with clear and understandable information about breast cancer, its prevention, and treatment options can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. This can involve providing educational materials, offering health education classes, or utilizing patient portals to share information.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of breast cancer care in Grimesland (27837) requires a comprehensive assessment. This involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. It also involves considering the coordination of care, the responsiveness of providers to patient needs, the accessibility of financial assistance, the availability of specialized services, and the level of health literacy within the community. A thorough evaluation of these factors will provide a clearer picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and highlight areas for improvement.

For a detailed visual representation of healthcare resources in Grimesland, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and population demographics, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare services and identifying potential gaps in care.