27892, Williamston, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27892, Williamston, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.09 percent of the residents in 27892 has some form of health insurance. 48.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.22 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 27892 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,482 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27892. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,971 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,125 health care providers accessible to residents in 27892, Williamston, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Williamston, NC (ZIP Code 27892)

Analyzing breast cancer care within ZIP code 27892, encompassing Williamston, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice quality, technology adoption, and access to mental health support, ultimately aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the overall quality of care available to patients in this specific geographical area. This score, however, is an estimation, based on publicly available data and reasonable assumptions. It is not a definitive judgment.

The cornerstone of any breast cancer care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Williamston, assessing primary care availability is crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio within the county (Martin County) is a critical indicator. Public health data, such as that available from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, must be consulted to determine the current ratio. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, this metric alone is insufficient. The distribution of these physicians within the town of Williamston itself, and their willingness to accept new patients, significantly impacts access. Are there enough PCPs actively accepting new patients? Are appointments readily available, or are wait times excessive? These factors directly influence the speed with which a patient can access screening and, if necessary, referral to a specialist.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Does the local medical community emphasize preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings? Are PCPs well-versed in the latest screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Cancer Society or the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force? Do they actively educate patients about their risk factors and the importance of early detection? These elements contribute to a higher "Breast Cancer Score."

Specialist availability is the next critical factor. While PCPs provide initial screening and referrals, access to specialists is essential for diagnosis and treatment. This includes radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to Williamston is a significant consideration. Do patients need to travel long distances to access these services? Longer travel times can create barriers to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department or a partnership with a larger cancer center in a nearby city would positively influence the score.

The quality of specialist care is equally important. Are specialists board-certified? Do they have experience in treating breast cancer? Does the local hospital or clinic offer advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI? The availability of these technologies can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and staging. Furthermore, the volume of breast cancer cases handled by the specialists and the hospital can be a proxy for experience. Higher volume often correlates with better outcomes.

Technology adoption plays a crucial role in modern healthcare. Telemedicine, in particular, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Williamston. Does the local medical community offer telemedicine consultations for follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, or even virtual support groups? The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) also facilitates care coordination and information sharing among providers, leading to a more seamless patient experience. Practices utilizing patient portals for appointment scheduling, communication, and access to medical records also contribute to a higher score.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for patients navigating their diagnosis and treatment. Are there local mental health professionals who specialize in oncology-related issues? Does the local hospital or cancer center offer support groups or counseling services? The presence of these resources significantly enhances the overall quality of care and contributes to a higher score.

Standout practices within the area should be identified. This could include practices that have achieved accreditation from organizations like the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), indicating a commitment to high-quality care. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or offer innovative treatment options should also be highlighted. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall experience of care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Williamston, NC (27892) would be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of these factors. A higher score would indicate better access to care, higher quality of care, and greater availability of supportive services. The specific weighting of each factor would depend on its relative importance in contributing to positive patient outcomes. This score is a snapshot in time and is subject to change based on evolving healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, the availability of primary care, the quality of specialist care, the adoption of technology, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of breast cancer care in Williamston, NC. Understanding these factors is essential for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

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