27922, Cofield, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27922, Cofield, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.78 percent of the residents in 27922 has some form of health insurance. 46.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.64 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 27922 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 154 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27922. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 489 health care providers accessible to residents in 27922, Cofield, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27922 & Primary Care in Cofield

This analysis provides a nuanced understanding of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 27922, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians in Cofield, North Carolina. It goes beyond simple rankings to assess the landscape of care, considering physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive perspective for individuals seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment in this specific geographical area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on strong primary care. In Cofield, assessing primary care availability is crucial. This involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the population. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can create significant barriers to timely care. It may lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and delays in the diagnosis of potential breast cancer concerns. Analyzing the patient load of each PCP is a critical step in understanding the real-world accessibility of primary care in Cofield.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the experience and expertise of the PCPs, their familiarity with local specialists, and their commitment to patient education and preventative care. Primary care providers play a vital role in educating patients about breast cancer risk factors, recommending appropriate screening schedules, and coordinating referrals to specialists when necessary. Assessing the presence of dedicated patient navigators within primary care practices can also be a positive indicator, as they help guide patients through the complex healthcare system.

Within ZIP Code 27922, identifying standout practices is key. This involves researching practices that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer care. This may include practices that proactively offer mammogram screenings on-site, or those that have established strong partnerships with local radiology centers and breast cancer specialists. Evaluating the practice's use of electronic health records (EHRs) and its ability to seamlessly share patient information with specialists is another important factor. Practices that embrace technology to streamline care coordination and improve patient outcomes deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly relevant in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Cofield. Telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps, providing access to specialists who might not be readily available locally. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialist providers in ZIP Code 27922 is essential. This includes assessing whether practices offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, patient education, or even preliminary screenings. The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who face transportation challenges or other mobility issues.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling and support groups, is crucial for patients navigating the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system, and the degree to which primary care practices integrate mental health screening and referrals, is vital. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients demonstrate a holistic approach to care.

The analysis must also consider the specific challenges faced by the community in ZIP Code 27922. This includes factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural factors that may influence healthcare-seeking behaviors. Understanding these factors can provide a more comprehensive picture of the barriers to care and help identify areas where targeted interventions are needed. For example, if transportation is a significant barrier, the availability of mobile mammography units or transportation assistance programs could be valuable.

Furthermore, the analysis should examine the availability of specialized breast cancer services within a reasonable distance of ZIP Code 27922. This includes access to diagnostic imaging centers, surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and reconstructive surgeons. The proximity of these specialists and the ease with which patients can access their services are critical factors in determining the quality of care. The analysis should also assess the availability of support services, such as physical therapy, lymphedema management, and survivorship programs.

When evaluating the quality of care, it's also important to look at patient outcomes. This can include factors such as the stage at which breast cancer is diagnosed, the survival rates of patients, and the patient satisfaction scores. While obtaining this data can be challenging, it provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of the healthcare system. Publicly available data from sources like the National Cancer Institute or state health departments can offer valuable insights.

In conclusion, the assessment of breast cancer care in ZIP Code 27922, with specific attention to primary care availability in Cofield, requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. This analysis should also consider the unique challenges faced by the community and the availability of specialized breast cancer services. By considering all these factors, a comprehensive understanding of the breast cancer care landscape can be achieved, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

To visualize this complex data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 27922, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of physician locations, healthcare resources, and demographic data.