27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.42 percent of the residents in 27855 has some form of health insurance. 46.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.25 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 27855 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27855. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,130 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 249 health care providers accessible to residents in 27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Murfreesboro, NC (ZIP Code 27855)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Murfreesboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27855) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the availability and quality of primary care, the presence and capabilities of local physicians, and the integration of supportive resources. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, though it's important to acknowledge that such a score is inherently complex and relies on publicly available data and reasonable assumptions.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible and high-quality primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, crucial for early detection through screening and referrals. In Murfreesboro, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. The national average is a good benchmark, but the specific ratio within 27855 requires careful research. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the U.S. Census Bureau can provide population figures. Comparing these to the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code, and considering the potential for patients to seek care outside the immediate area, helps paint a picture of accessibility.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is critical. This includes the practices' commitment to preventive care, specifically breast cancer screening guidelines. Do the PCPs actively recommend mammograms based on age and risk factors? Are they knowledgeable about the latest recommendations from organizations like the American Cancer Society or the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force? Assessing this often involves reviewing practice websites for information on screening protocols, or even conducting "mystery shopper" calls to inquire about their approach.

The presence of specialized breast cancer care within Murfreesboro itself is likely limited. Therefore, the analysis must focus on the referral pathways to specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, in nearby towns and cities. Proximity to larger medical centers with comprehensive cancer programs is a significant factor. The travel time and ease of access to these facilities are crucial considerations for patients.

Evaluating the physician landscape requires identifying the specific doctors practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Researching their affiliations, specializations, and patient reviews is vital. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc can provide valuable insights, though it’s important to interpret reviews with caution. Identifying standout practices involves looking for those with a strong reputation, a commitment to patient-centered care, and a focus on early detection and prevention.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the analysis. The ability to access virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services involves examining the practices' websites, contacting them directly, and exploring whether they offer virtual appointments for routine check-ups, follow-up consultations, and mental health support.

Mental health resources are a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Evaluating the availability of mental health support involves identifying local therapists, counselors, and support groups. Are there readily available resources for patients dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? Do the primary care practices and oncology centers have established referral pathways to mental health professionals?

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Murfreesboro, NC (ZIP Code 27855) would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care foundation with readily accessible PCPs committed to screening, excellent referral pathways to specialized cancer care, a robust telemedicine infrastructure, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score would reflect challenges in any of these areas, such as limited access to PCPs, lengthy travel times to specialists, a lack of telemedicine options, or a scarcity of mental health support.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. Does the population have adequate health insurance coverage? Are there resources available to help patients navigate the healthcare system and access financial assistance? These factors are crucial for ensuring that all residents have an equal opportunity to receive the best possible care.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Murfreesboro is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability and quality, physician expertise, referral pathways, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The resulting "Breast Cancer Score" provides a valuable snapshot of the current state of care and highlights areas where improvements are needed.

For a visual representation of this information and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help visualize physician locations, access to specialists, and other relevant data points, providing a powerful tool for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in Murfreesboro and beyond.