27864, Pinetops, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27864, Pinetops, North Carolina is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.34 percent of the residents in 27864 has some form of health insurance. 46.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.18 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 27864 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,189 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 112 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27864. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 870 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,121 health care providers accessible to residents in 27864, Pinetops, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Pinetops, NC (ZIP Code 27864)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Pinetops, North Carolina (ZIP code 27864) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score, while not a precise number, represents a relative ranking of the overall quality and accessibility of care within the specified geographic area.

The foundation of any strong healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Pinetops, a relatively small community, faces challenges common to rural areas: a potentially limited number of PCPs and a greater distance to specialized care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, alongside national averages, provides a baseline. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in timely access to appointments, preventative screenings, and initial diagnoses. This, in turn, impacts early detection, a critical factor in breast cancer survival rates.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the existing primary care practices are vital. Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate varying schedules? Do they have established protocols for breast cancer screening, including mammogram referrals and patient education materials? Furthermore, the presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is a significant factor. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs, specialists, and patients, ensuring continuity of care and reducing the risk of diagnostic delays.

The availability of specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, is another crucial element. While Pinetops itself may not have these specialists, the proximity and accessibility of specialists in nearby cities like Greenville or Rocky Mount are vital. The travel time, the ease of making appointments, and the availability of transportation options for patients undergoing treatment all influence the overall Breast Cancer Score. The presence of support services, such as oncology nurses, patient navigators, and support groups, further enhances the care continuum.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role, particularly in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Practices that offer telemedicine options, including remote monitoring capabilities, receive a higher score. This technology can also facilitate remote follow-up appointments, allowing for timely monitoring of patients undergoing treatment or those in remission.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns, offer counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals contribute significantly to the overall quality of care. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also crucial. These groups provide a safe space for patients to share experiences, receive emotional support, and connect with others facing similar challenges.

Standout practices within the area, if any, are identified through a combination of publicly available information, patient reviews (while always taking into account the limitations of reviews), and potentially, data from local healthcare organizations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive screening protocols, and a strong emphasis on communication and patient education are recognized. These practices often have a positive impact on the community and serve as models for other healthcare providers. They may also be actively involved in community outreach programs and educational initiatives.

The Breast Cancer Score for Pinetops, NC (ZIP code 27864) is therefore a composite assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of primary care practices, the accessibility of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more robust and accessible system of care, while a lower score highlights areas for improvement. It's essential to remember that this is a snapshot in time, and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving.

The challenges faced by rural communities in accessing quality healthcare are well-documented. The Breast Cancer Score analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the specific needs of Pinetops and for identifying opportunities to improve care. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to develop targeted interventions and initiatives aimed at enhancing breast cancer prevention, detection, and treatment.

The overall assessment for Pinetops, NC (ZIP code 27864) reveals that while the community may face certain challenges common to rural areas, it is not devoid of resources. The availability of primary care physicians, the proximity to specialists in nearby cities, and the potential for telemedicine adoption are factors that can positively influence the Breast Cancer Score. However, the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of the existing primary care practices, and the integration of mental health resources warrant careful consideration.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pinetops and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of geospatial data. CartoChrome maps can provide detailed visualizations of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access and resource distribution.