27844, Hollister, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27844, Hollister, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.86 percent of the residents in 27844 has some form of health insurance. 57.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.39 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 27844 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 622 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27844. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 674 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 914 health care providers accessible to residents in 27844, Hollister, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Hollister, NC (ZIP Code 27844)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 27844, Hollister, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the presence of specialists, and the integration of supportive services. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," though it's important to recognize that such a score is a simplified representation of a complex reality. The goal is to illuminate strengths and weaknesses, ultimately informing residents about their access to quality breast cancer care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon robust primary care. In Hollister, determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from the American Medical Association, can provide estimates. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians serving a larger population, could signify potential delays in preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and timely referrals to specialists. Further investigation into the specific practices within the ZIP code is necessary. Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate working individuals? These factors influence accessibility.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. This goes beyond simply providing medical services. It involves actively promoting preventative care, offering patient education resources, and fostering a supportive environment. Identifying such practices requires a deeper dive. Are practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient histories and coordinate care? Do they have dedicated staff members focused on patient navigation, helping individuals navigate the complexities of the healthcare system? These practices often demonstrate a higher level of patient satisfaction and improved health outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, especially for follow-up appointments or initial consultations, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of practices in Hollister is essential. Do they offer virtual visits? Are they equipped with the necessary technology to provide these services effectively? The integration of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial in a rural setting like Hollister, where geographic barriers can limit access to specialists.

Beyond the medical aspects, the availability of mental health resources is a significant factor in breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the ZIP code is crucial. Do local practices have partnerships with mental health providers? Are there support groups available for breast cancer patients and their families? The integration of mental health services demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the emotional well-being of individuals throughout their journey.

Further, the proximity to comprehensive cancer centers is a key consideration. While Hollister may not have its own dedicated cancer center, the accessibility of nearby facilities in larger cities like Raleigh or Durham is vital. This includes assessing the travel time, transportation options, and the availability of support services at these centers, such as financial assistance and patient navigation programs. The ability to access specialized treatments, clinical trials, and multidisciplinary care teams is essential for optimal breast cancer outcomes.

Assessing the quality of care requires looking beyond the mere presence of services. It involves evaluating patient outcomes, such as survival rates and recurrence rates. This data, however, can be difficult to obtain at the ZIP code level. Instead, one can look at national averages and compare them to the care provided in the surrounding county and state. Are practices adhering to established guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment? Are they participating in quality improvement initiatives? These factors contribute to the overall quality of care.

To create a "Breast Cancer Score" for Hollister, we would need to weigh these factors, assigning numerical values to each element. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio might negatively impact the score, while the widespread adoption of telemedicine would positively influence it. The presence of mental health resources and proximity to a comprehensive cancer center would also contribute to a higher score. This score, however, should not be interpreted as an absolute measure of quality, but rather as a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

A comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care in Hollister would also include an evaluation of health insurance coverage rates and the availability of financial assistance programs. These factors directly impact access to care and can significantly influence patient outcomes. Are there resources available to help patients navigate the complexities of health insurance and access affordable care?

The development of this score, and the deeper analysis that underlies it, are critical for understanding the healthcare needs of the Hollister community. It empowers residents to make informed decisions about their health and encourages healthcare providers to improve their services. This analysis is a starting point for ongoing evaluation and improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hollister, including the location of practices, specialists, and support services, consider exploring the data using interactive maps. **CartoChrome maps** offer powerful visualization tools that can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care. Utilize **CartoChrome maps** to visualize the healthcare resources available in your community.