The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27891, Whitakers, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 82.68 percent of the residents in 27891 has some form of health insurance. 41.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.58 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 27891 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 873 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27891. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 860 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 411 health care providers accessible to residents in 27891, Whitakers, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 27891, Whitakers, North Carolina
Breast Cancer Score | 12 |
---|---|
People Score | 26 |
Provider Score | 35 |
Hospital Score | 31 |
Travel Score | 35 |
27891 | Whitakers | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27891 and Whitakers, NC**
This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 27891, encompassing the town of Whitakers, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering various factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician availability, quality of care, access to resources, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis will not produce a single numerical score, but rather a qualitative evaluation based on available data and observable trends.
**Physician Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**
The foundation of any healthcare system lies in the availability of qualified medical professionals. In ZIP Code 27891, assessing physician availability requires a detailed look at the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer care. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with information from insurance provider networks, can provide a starting point. However, this data alone does not paint a complete picture.
The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. It indicates the number of patients each physician is responsible for. A high ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised quality of care. Conversely, a low ratio suggests greater access and potentially improved patient outcomes. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP code requires careful analysis of population data (available from the US Census Bureau) and physician counts. Rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially leading to higher ratios compared to urban centers.
**Primary Care Availability in Whitakers**
Primary care physicians serve as the first point of contact for patients and play a vital role in early detection and prevention of breast cancer. The availability of PCPs in Whitakers is a key indicator of the community's healthcare access. The analysis must consider the number of practices within the town, their operating hours, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. Accessibility is also a factor; the proximity of practices to residents, including transportation options, plays a significant role.
Furthermore, the analysis should assess the PCP's capacity for breast cancer screening and education. Do they offer mammogram referrals? Do they provide education on self-exams and risk factors? The presence of these services within primary care practices can significantly improve early detection rates and improve patient outcomes.
**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**
Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors beyond physician availability. The analysis should consider patient satisfaction scores, which can be found through patient reviews and surveys. The presence of accreditations from organizations like the American College of Radiology (for mammography facilities) or the Commission on Cancer (for cancer centers) indicates adherence to high-quality standards.
Furthermore, the analysis must assess the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options. Does the area have access to advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis)? Are there surgical oncology specialists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists within a reasonable distance? The availability of these specialists and technologies directly impacts the quality of care.
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**
Telemedicine offers a promising solution to improve healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in ZIP Code 27891 is a critical factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." The analysis should investigate which practices offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations.
Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, saving patients time and money. It can also provide access to specialists who may not be located in the immediate area. The integration of telemedicine into breast cancer care, for example, could involve virtual consultations with oncologists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing chemotherapy, and educational sessions on breast cancer prevention and treatment.
**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems**
Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Access to mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive care. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, in the area. Are there support groups for breast cancer patients and survivors? Are there resources for managing stress, anxiety, and depression?
The integration of mental health services into the breast cancer care continuum is essential. This could involve referrals to mental health professionals, educational programs on coping with cancer, and support groups for patients and their families. Access to these resources can significantly improve patients' overall well-being and quality of life.
**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**
Assessing the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 27891 and Whitakers, NC, requires a multifaceted approach. The availability of physicians, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the access to mental health resources are all critical factors. While a single numerical score is not feasible without extensive, proprietary data, this analysis provides a framework for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.
To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the location of healthcare providers, identify areas with limited access, and analyze demographic data to understand health disparities. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper insight into the healthcare environment in ZIP Code 27891 and beyond.
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