27886, Tarboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27886, Tarboro, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.03 percent of the residents in 27886 has some form of health insurance. 50.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.42 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 27886 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,084 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27886. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,258 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 427 health care providers accessible to residents in 27886, Tarboro, North Carolina.

This analysis assesses breast cancer care within ZIP code 27886, focusing on Tarboro, North Carolina, and its primary care resources. It considers factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape as it relates to breast cancer care. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an analytical overview.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Tarboro, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the timeliness of screenings, diagnoses, and referrals. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial early detection efforts. Data on this ratio within 27886 is essential for a comprehensive assessment. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Medical Board or the US Census Bureau, can be used to estimate this ratio.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including robust screening programs for breast cancer, are highly valued. This includes the consistent recommendation of mammograms, education on self-exams, and timely referrals to specialists when necessary. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) can also improve care coordination, facilitating seamless information sharing between primary care physicians, radiologists, and oncologists.

Standout practices within the area should be identified based on their adherence to best practices. This includes practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, demonstrate high patient satisfaction scores, and have a proven track record of successful patient outcomes. Identifying these practices and highlighting their strengths can serve as a benchmark for other providers and empower patients to make informed choices about their care.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Tarboro. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who face geographical barriers or mobility challenges. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies are likely to offer a more patient-centered and accessible approach to breast cancer care.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as counselors, therapists, and support groups, is crucial for helping patients cope with the emotional and psychological impact of the disease. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being.

Specialist care is also a key consideration. The availability of oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists within a reasonable distance is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, or affiliations with larger regional cancer centers, can provide access to advanced treatment options, clinical trials, and multidisciplinary care teams. The proximity of these specialists and their collaborative approach to patient care significantly influence the overall quality of breast cancer care in the area.

The analysis should also consider the availability of support services beyond medical care. This includes access to patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, and financial assistance programs, which can help patients manage the costs of treatment. The presence of these support services can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of the disease.

Another important factor is the availability of resources for underserved populations. Disparities in breast cancer outcomes are often linked to socioeconomic factors, race, and ethnicity. Healthcare providers in 27886 should demonstrate a commitment to addressing these disparities by providing culturally competent care, offering language services, and actively reaching out to underserved communities.

The integration of data analytics is also a crucial aspect of assessing breast cancer care. By analyzing data on patient outcomes, screening rates, and treatment patterns, healthcare providers can identify areas for improvement and track their progress over time. The use of data analytics can also help to identify potential risk factors and tailor care to the specific needs of the patient population.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in 27886 should consider all these factors, providing a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. It is important to acknowledge that this is a dynamic environment, and the quality of care can change over time. Regular assessments and ongoing monitoring are essential to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

The evaluation of primary care availability and its impact on breast cancer care in Tarboro should be a continuous process. Regular updates and analyses are necessary to reflect changes in physician staffing, practice characteristics, technological advancements, and the evolving needs of the patient population. This ongoing monitoring ensures that the community has access to the most current information and that healthcare providers are continuously striving to improve the quality of care.

This analysis has highlighted the key factors influencing breast cancer care in ZIP code 27886. Understanding these factors is the first step towards improving the quality of care and ensuring that all patients have access to the resources they need. For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to services, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.