27878, Sharpsburg, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27878, Sharpsburg, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.37 percent of the residents in 27878 has some form of health insurance. 64.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.23 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 27878 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 303 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27878. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 203 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,435 health care providers accessible to residents in 27878, Sharpsburg, North Carolina.

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care within a specific geographic area, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will focus on physicians in ZIP Code 27878 (Sharpsburg, NC) and the availability of primary care resources, considering factors crucial for breast cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. It will not be a definitive "score" but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Sharpsburg and the surrounding areas is a critical starting point. A low ratio can indicate limited access to care, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the US Census Bureau, and the American Medical Association (AMA) can provide a baseline understanding. However, these figures often represent averages, and the reality on the ground can vary. The presence of specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is particularly important for breast cancer care. Their concentration or scarcity significantly impacts the timeliness and quality of treatment.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. This involves evaluating factors beyond simple physician counts. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, such as offering convenient mammography services and promoting regular screenings, deserve recognition. Furthermore, practices that integrate a multidisciplinary approach to care, involving primary care physicians, specialists, and support staff, often provide superior patient outcomes. The availability of patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is a significant asset.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. This is particularly relevant for breast cancer patients, who may face mobility challenges or require frequent check-ups.

Mental health resources are a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Practices that provide access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Integration of mental health services into the treatment plan can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

The availability of support services beyond medical care is also important. This includes access to financial assistance programs, transportation services, and patient advocacy groups. These resources can alleviate some of the burdens associated with a cancer diagnosis and treatment, allowing patients to focus on their health.

Specifically, within ZIP Code 27878, the presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or a Rural Health Clinic (RHC) can be a significant advantage. These facilities often provide comprehensive primary care services, including preventive screenings, and may offer discounted services to low-income patients. Investigating the specific services offered by these clinics is crucial.

To assess the quality of care, it is necessary to look at the accreditation status of local hospitals and clinics. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) indicates a commitment to high standards of care. This includes adherence to evidence-based guidelines, access to advanced technology, and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

The integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs), can also be an indicator of a practice's commitment to quality. EHRs facilitate communication between healthcare providers, improve care coordination, and provide patients with access to their medical information.

The analysis must also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served. Factors such as age, race, and socioeconomic status can influence access to care and health outcomes. Addressing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to care for all residents is a critical consideration.

In Sharpsburg, the presence of community outreach programs and educational initiatives focused on breast cancer awareness and prevention is important. These programs can help to increase screening rates and promote early detection.

To fully evaluate the availability of primary care, it is necessary to consider the types of primary care providers available. This includes family physicians, internal medicine specialists, and nurse practitioners. The ability of patients to easily access a primary care provider is crucial for early detection and referral to specialists.

The analysis should also consider the patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the ease of scheduling, and the overall satisfaction with the care received. Patient feedback is an invaluable source of information for assessing the quality of care.

Finally, the analysis should consider the financial aspects of care. This includes the cost of services, the availability of insurance coverage, and the availability of financial assistance programs. The affordability of care is a critical factor in determining access to care.

This comprehensive approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and various support services, will provide a more complete understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in Sharpsburg. It moves beyond simple scores to provide actionable insights.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify underserved areas, and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic factors impacting access to care, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing for a more informed analysis.