27872, Roxobel, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27872, Roxobel, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 70.69 percent of the residents in 27872 has some form of health insurance. 58.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 26.55 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 27872 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 42 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27872. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 545 health care providers accessible to residents in 27872, Roxobel, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27872 and Roxobel Primary Care

This analysis delves into the availability of breast cancer-related care within ZIP code 27872, focusing specifically on the primary care landscape in Roxobel, North Carolina. We will examine factors crucial for early detection and effective treatment, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of breast cancer care. This is not a definitive ranking but rather an assessment of the current state and potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Roxobel, a small town within the 27872 ZIP code, presents a unique challenge. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages, impacting the crucial early detection phase. Regular checkups, including breast exams and referrals for mammograms, are essential for identifying potential issues early. A low physician-to-patient ratio in Roxobel could mean longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. This necessitates a closer look at the existing primary care practices and their capacity to serve the community's needs.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios requires data on the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within Roxobel and the total population served. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can provide these figures. However, simply calculating the ratio is insufficient. We must also consider the age and health profiles of the population. An older population, or one with a higher prevalence of chronic illnesses, will likely require more frequent primary care visits, placing additional strain on the available resources. This directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely breast cancer screenings.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the physicians' experience and expertise in breast cancer screening and referral, the availability of on-site or readily accessible mammography services, and the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, offer flexible appointment scheduling, and provide clear communication about risk factors and screening guidelines are more likely to contribute to positive outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in Roxobel can significantly improve access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially mitigating the impact of physician shortages. For breast cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, particularly for patients who might otherwise struggle to access these services. The availability of virtual breast cancer support groups and educational resources can also be a major benefit.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can take a significant emotional toll on patients, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the Roxobel area is vital. Ideally, primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health services, ensuring that patients have access to the support they need. Integrating mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patients' quality of life and treatment outcomes.

The assessment of practices must also consider their integration with larger healthcare systems. Affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers in nearby cities, such as Greenville or Raleigh, can provide access to specialized services, advanced technologies, and multidisciplinary care teams. This integration is particularly important for breast cancer patients, who often require a range of services, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

The overall breast cancer score for ZIP code 27872, and specifically for Roxobel, is likely influenced by several interconnected factors. The physician-to-patient ratio is a primary indicator, but it must be balanced with the quality of care offered by existing practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The absence of any of these key elements will negatively impact the score. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer support group, or a local chapter of a national organization, can also be a positive factor, providing patients with peer support and valuable information.

Further research could involve direct outreach to primary care practices in Roxobel to gather more detailed information about their services, staffing, and patient care protocols. This would allow for a more granular assessment of the breast cancer care landscape. Patient surveys could also provide valuable insights into their experiences with the healthcare system, including access to care, communication with physicians, and satisfaction with the overall quality of care.

Ultimately, improving breast cancer care in Roxobel and the surrounding areas requires a multifaceted approach. Addressing physician shortages, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and ensuring access to mental health resources are all essential steps. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial to create a supportive and effective healthcare environment for breast cancer patients. This is not just about numbers, it is about creating an environment where patients feel supported and empowered to take control of their health.

For a more comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 27872, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential areas for improvement.