27910, Ahoskie, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27910, Ahoskie, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.93 percent of the residents in 27910 has some form of health insurance. 47.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.40 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 27910 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,483 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27910. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,191 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 518 health care providers accessible to residents in 27910, Ahoskie, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ahoskie, NC (ZIP Code 27910)**

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Ahoskie, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27910) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the presence of medical professionals but also the accessibility and quality of care available to patients. This analysis constructs a hypothetical "Breast Cancer Score" to assess the overall strength of the local healthcare ecosystem in relation to breast cancer detection, treatment, and support. This score considers various factors, including physician density, primary care availability, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources.

The first critical element is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients and play a vital role in early detection through routine screenings and referrals. Ahoskie, being a relatively rural area, may face challenges in this regard. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per PCP, generally suggests better access. This analysis would need to gather data from the North Carolina Medical Board or similar sources to determine the precise PCP density within the 27910 ZIP code and the surrounding areas.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the proactive approach to breast cancer screening, adherence to established guidelines (such as those from the American Cancer Society or the National Comprehensive Cancer Network), and the efficiency of referral pathways to specialists. The score would consider the presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing and coordination of care, which is a crucial factor in a patient's journey.

Next, the analysis must investigate the presence of specialists directly involved in breast cancer care. This includes radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The ideal scenario is a comprehensive network of these specialists within or easily accessible to the community. The score would factor in the proximity of these specialists, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (such as 3D mammography), and the reputation of the practices. This would require examining online reviews, patient testimonials (while maintaining patient privacy), and potentially consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups.

The “standout practices” element of the score considers practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. These practices might be recognized for their patient-centered approach, their integration of innovative technologies, or their involvement in clinical trials. Identifying these practices would involve a review of their services, accreditation status, and participation in quality improvement initiatives. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including navigators and support staff, would also contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, provide remote consultations, and facilitate follow-up care. The analysis would investigate the extent to which local practices have adopted telemedicine technologies, including the types of services offered remotely and the ease of access for patients. The availability of virtual consultations for breast cancer screening, treatment, and support would significantly enhance the score.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. The analysis would assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology-related issues. The score would also consider the presence of support groups, educational programs, and other resources that address the psychological and emotional needs of breast cancer patients and their families. The integration of mental health services within the cancer care pathway is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Furthermore, the analysis would consider the availability of other supportive services, such as physical therapy, nutritional counseling, and financial assistance programs. These services contribute to the overall well-being of patients and can significantly improve their quality of life during and after treatment. The score would reflect the accessibility and comprehensiveness of these supportive services within the local community.

Assessing the availability of breast cancer education and awareness programs is also important. This includes the presence of community outreach initiatives, educational materials, and screening programs. The score would reflect the extent to which the local healthcare system actively promotes breast cancer awareness and encourages early detection.

In addition to these factors, the analysis would consider the overall healthcare infrastructure of the region. This includes the presence of hospitals, outpatient clinics, and other healthcare facilities. The score would reflect the accessibility and quality of these facilities, as well as their ability to provide comprehensive breast cancer care.

Data collection for this analysis would involve multiple sources. Publicly available data from government agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, would provide demographic information and health statistics. Data from professional organizations, such as the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Cancer Society (ACS), would provide information on best practices and guidelines. Local healthcare providers and community organizations would be contacted to gather information on their services and resources.

The final Breast Cancer Score would be a composite measure, reflecting the overall strength of the local healthcare ecosystem in relation to breast cancer care. The score would be presented in a clear and concise format, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This score can be used to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Ahoskie, NC.

To visualize this complex data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ahoskie, NC, and the surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize physician locations, primary care access points, and the availability of specialized breast cancer services, providing a comprehensive geographic overview of the healthcare resources available in the region.