27857, Oak City, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27857, Oak City, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.27 percent of the residents in 27857 has some form of health insurance. 51.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.14 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 27857 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 146 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27857. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 362 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 429 health care providers accessible to residents in 27857, Oak City, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Oak City, NC (ZIP Code 27857)**

Oak City, North Carolina, a small town nestled in the eastern part of the state, presents a unique landscape when assessing breast cancer care accessibility and quality. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 27857, aims to evaluate the available resources, physician practices, and overall healthcare environment for individuals navigating the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. We will examine factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive breast cancer care model.

The cornerstone of any robust healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Oak City, the accessibility of PCPs directly impacts early detection and referral rates for breast cancer. A higher PCP-to-patient ratio, ideally, allows for more frequent screenings, preventative care, and timely referrals to specialists. However, the rural nature of the area might present challenges in this regard. Understanding the current ratio requires a detailed investigation into the number of practicing PCPs within the 27857 ZIP code and the corresponding population demographics. This data is critical for determining if the community has adequate access to primary care, a vital first step in the breast cancer journey.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and reputation of primary care practices are equally important. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating patient reviews, physician qualifications, and the integration of preventative services, such as mammogram referrals. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, offer patient education materials, and maintain strong relationships with local specialists are more likely to provide superior care. Assessing these factors requires a review of online platforms, insurance provider directories, and potentially, direct outreach to local healthcare providers.

Specialty care, particularly oncology and radiology, is essential for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The availability of oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons within a reasonable distance is a critical factor. While Oak City might not have a dedicated cancer center, the proximity to larger medical facilities in neighboring towns or cities, such as Greenville or Rocky Mount, is a significant consideration. The travel time and accessibility of these facilities directly impact patient convenience and the ability to receive timely treatment. This analysis would need to map the locations of specialist providers and assess transportation options available to residents.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Oak City can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health support. Evaluating the telemedicine capabilities of local practices involves determining whether they offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially overcome geographical barriers and provide more convenient and accessible care options.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis is profound. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. This analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the 27857 ZIP code or nearby areas. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, either through on-site counseling or referrals, is crucial for supporting patients through their journey. Assessing the existence of support groups, both in-person and online, would also be a key component of this evaluation.

The integration of technology in breast cancer care extends beyond telemedicine. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates information sharing between providers, improving care coordination and patient outcomes. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, allowing for seamless communication and access to patient data, are generally better equipped to provide comprehensive care. Evaluating the EHR systems in use by local practices would provide valuable insights into their operational efficiency and their capacity to coordinate patient care.

Furthermore, the financial aspects of healthcare cannot be overlooked. The availability of financial assistance programs, insurance coverage options, and information about cost-effective treatment alternatives is crucial for patients. This analysis would need to investigate the availability of resources that help patients navigate the financial complexities of breast cancer treatment, ensuring that financial constraints do not become a barrier to care.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The ability of local practices to adapt to new technologies, treatment protocols, and patient needs is essential. This analysis would assess the practices' commitment to continuing education, their participation in clinical trials, and their willingness to embrace innovative approaches to breast cancer care. The commitment to ongoing learning and improvement is a key indicator of the quality of care provided.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care environment in Oak City (ZIP code 27857) requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining mental health resources are all crucial components. The geographical isolation of the area presents challenges, but the availability of resources in neighboring communities, the adoption of telemedicine, and the commitment of local healthcare providers can mitigate these challenges. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, highlighting areas for improvement and ultimately, aiming to ensure that residents of Oak City have access to high-quality breast cancer care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Oak City, NC, and explore the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and available resources, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer an interactive and data-driven platform to understand the complexities of healthcare access and identify areas for improvement.