27919, Belvidere, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27919, Belvidere, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.48 percent of the residents in 27919 has some form of health insurance. 40.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.35 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 27919 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 163 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27919. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 137 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,218 health care providers accessible to residents in 27919, Belvidere, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Belvidere, NC (ZIP Code 27919)

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer care within Belvidere, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27919) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the key factors influencing a patient's journey, from initial diagnosis to ongoing support, considering the unique context of a rural community. We will assess the landscape of primary care, specialist access, mental health resources, and technological integration to formulate a "Breast Cancer Score" for the area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Belvidere, assessing primary care availability is crucial. This involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, as well as the patient-to-physician ratio. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors for the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced continuity of care. Investigating the average wait times for routine checkups and the ease of scheduling appointments is also critical. Furthermore, the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can provide a significant portion of primary care services, should be considered.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. We need to evaluate the quality of care provided by existing primary care practices. This involves looking at patient satisfaction scores, which can be gleaned from online reviews and surveys, and assessing the practice's commitment to preventive care, such as mammogram screenings. Practices that actively promote early detection through reminders and education programs deserve recognition. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers is also a key factor. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing, allowing for better coordination of care between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals involved in a patient's treatment.

Specialist access is a critical component of breast cancer care. The availability of oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists within a reasonable distance of Belvidere is paramount. Patients often require multiple consultations and treatments, and travel time can significantly impact their well-being and access to care. The proximity of cancer centers and hospitals equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, is essential. We must assess the referral pathways from primary care physicians to specialists, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition for patients requiring specialized care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists who may not be physically present in Belvidere. Assessing the availability of telehealth services for oncology consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups is crucial. The ease of use of these platforms, the technical support offered, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care plan are key considerations. Telemedicine can also be used to deliver educational resources and promote self-management strategies for patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology support is critical. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, provides patients with a valuable network of peers who can share their experiences and offer emotional support. Assessing the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including screening for depression and anxiety, is vital.

Formulating a "Breast Cancer Score" for Belvidere requires assigning weights to each of these factors. Primary care access and quality would likely receive a high weighting, as they form the foundation of early detection and ongoing care. Specialist access and telemedicine adoption would also be heavily weighted, reflecting their importance in providing timely and comprehensive treatment. Mental health resources would be given a significant weighting, recognizing the crucial role they play in patient well-being. The overall score would be a composite of these weighted factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in the area.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that may influence access to care. This includes assessing the insurance coverage rates in the area, the availability of financial assistance programs for patients, and the transportation options available for those who need to travel to appointments. Addressing these factors is essential to ensuring equitable access to care for all residents of Belvidere.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in Belvidere, NC (ZIP Code 27919) requires a thorough examination of primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. By considering these factors and assigning appropriate weights, we can develop a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the quality and accessibility of care in the area. This analysis highlights the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by rural communities in providing comprehensive breast cancer care.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Belvidere and visualize the data, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data points, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in your community.