27863, Pikeville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27863, Pikeville, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.59 percent of the residents in 27863 has some form of health insurance. 30.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.29 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 27863 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,556 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27863. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,528 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,102 health care providers accessible to residents in 27863, Pikeville, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Pikeville, NC (ZIP Code 27863)**

This analysis evaluates the quality of breast cancer care available in Pikeville, North Carolina (ZIP code 27863), focusing on primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible and competent primary care. In Pikeville, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial factor. A robust primary care network is essential for early detection through regular screenings, patient education, and timely referrals to specialists. The presence of a sufficient number of primary care physicians, particularly those accepting new patients, directly impacts the ability of residents to access preventative care and address potential health concerns promptly. A shortage can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of healthcare access. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time a physician can dedicate to each patient. This can affect the thoroughness of examinations, the depth of patient education, and the speed with which referrals are made. Conversely, a lower ratio generally indicates better access to care, allowing for more personalized attention and proactive management of health concerns, including those related to breast cancer. In Pikeville, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio within the primary care network is critical for assessing the overall quality of care available.

Identifying standout practices within Pikeville is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in various aspects of patient care, including early detection, patient education, and the coordination of care. They might have adopted innovative screening techniques, implemented robust patient navigation programs, or demonstrated a commitment to patient-centered care. These practices serve as models for others and contribute to the overall quality of healthcare within the community. Examining their practices and successes can provide valuable insights into best practices and areas for improvement.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Pikeville. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be difficult to obtain. For breast cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to educational resources. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and specialists in Pikeville is a significant factor in assessing the accessibility and convenience of care. This includes the availability of virtual screening consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring for patients undergoing treatment.

The integration of mental health resources into breast cancer care is a critical component of comprehensive treatment. A breast cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential for addressing the psychological challenges associated with the disease. The availability of these resources in Pikeville, and their integration with primary care and oncology services, is a key indicator of the holistic approach to patient care. This includes the availability of mental health professionals within primary care practices, referrals to specialized mental health services, and support groups for patients and their families.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in Pikeville, NC (ZIP code 27863) requires a holistic approach. It necessitates a detailed understanding of primary care physician availability, the physician-to-patient ratio, the identification of standout practices, the level of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. These factors collectively determine the quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of care available to residents.

Further investigation into the specific practices of individual physicians and healthcare facilities is necessary to provide a more granular assessment. This includes examining the types of screening offered, the referral pathways for patients with suspicious findings, and the availability of support services for patients undergoing treatment. The presence of accredited cancer centers or affiliations with larger healthcare systems can also indicate a higher level of care and access to specialized services.

The success of breast cancer care in Pikeville is also dependent on community awareness and patient education. Public health initiatives that promote early detection, encourage regular screenings, and provide information about available resources are crucial. Patient education programs that empower individuals to take an active role in their healthcare are also essential. This includes providing information about risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options.

In conclusion, the quality of breast cancer care in Pikeville, NC (ZIP code 27863) is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. While this analysis provides a general overview, a more detailed investigation is necessary to fully understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. This includes a comprehensive assessment of primary care physician availability, the physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pikeville and the surrounding areas, explore the power of geographic data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of healthcare resources, allowing you to visualize physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data. Use CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community and make informed decisions about your health.