27920, Buxton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27920, Buxton, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.24 percent of the residents in 27920 has some form of health insurance. 27.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.79 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 27920 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 333 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27920. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 259 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21 health care providers accessible to residents in 27920, Buxton, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27920 and Primary Care in Buxton, NC

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care within ZIP code 27920, encompassing the Buxton, North Carolina, area. We examine the physician landscape, primary care access, and ancillary resources to assess the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem in supporting individuals facing breast cancer. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local resources, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform residents and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible and qualified medical professionals. In ZIP code 27920, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures require constant updating and access to proprietary databases, the rural nature of the Outer Banks suggests a potential scarcity of specialists. This could mean longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for specialized consultations (like oncologists or surgeons), and a greater reliance on primary care physicians for initial screenings and referrals. The availability of board-certified physicians, particularly in areas directly related to breast cancer (radiology, oncology, surgery), is a key factor in evaluating the quality of care. This analysis will attempt to ascertain the presence of these specialists and their respective practices.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the gateway to early detection and ongoing support. Their role extends beyond simply providing referrals; they are often the first point of contact for patients, providing essential education about breast cancer risk factors, performing initial screenings (or coordinating them), and offering emotional support during a challenging time. In Buxton, the availability of PCPs is crucial. The analysis will assess the number of primary care practices, their capacity to accept new patients, and the average wait times for appointments. We'll also investigate the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often play a vital role in primary care delivery, particularly in rural areas.

Standout practices within the area will be identified. This involves evaluating the services offered, patient reviews (where available and ethically permissible), and the integration of technology. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer comprehensive services (including diagnostic imaging), and proactively address potential barriers to access will be recognized. This might involve identifying practices that have demonstrated excellence in patient communication, or those that have implemented robust follow-up protocols.

Telemedicine is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographical limitations can be a significant barrier to care. The analysis will explore the adoption of telemedicine by local practices, including the availability of virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, reducing travel time and offering greater flexibility for patients. The availability of remote monitoring technologies, allowing physicians to track patient progress and intervene proactively, will also be assessed.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health resources in the area, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices or oncology centers is a significant indicator of a comprehensive approach to patient well-being. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, offering peer support and shared experiences, will also be considered.

The availability of diagnostic imaging, particularly mammography, is a critical component of early detection. The analysis will investigate the presence of mammography services within the ZIP code or in easily accessible neighboring areas. The type of mammography technology available (e.g., 3D mammography) and the accreditation of the imaging facilities will be considered. The ease of scheduling mammograms and the availability of follow-up diagnostic procedures (e.g., ultrasound, biopsy) will also be evaluated.

The analysis will also consider the integration of care coordination services. Breast cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. Care coordination services, such as nurse navigators, can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, schedule appointments, and manage their treatment plans. The presence of these services, either within practices or through external organizations, can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes.

Finally, the analysis will consider the overall community resources available to breast cancer patients. This includes access to financial assistance programs, transportation services, and educational resources. The presence of local organizations dedicated to supporting breast cancer patients, such as support groups or advocacy groups, will be evaluated. The availability of these resources can help to alleviate the financial and logistical burdens associated with breast cancer treatment and provide patients with a sense of community and support.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP code 27920 requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current situation, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvement is needed. While a complete and definitive assessment requires access to proprietary data and ongoing updates, this analysis provides a valuable starting point for understanding the resources available to individuals facing breast cancer in Buxton, NC.

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