27927, Corolla, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27927, Corolla, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.23 percent of the residents in 27927 has some form of health insurance. 47.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.25 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 27927 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 83 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27927. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 460 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 379 health care providers accessible to residents in 27927, Corolla, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Corolla, NC (ZIP Code 27927)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care and primary care accessibility within Corolla, North Carolina (ZIP code 27927). It considers factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the available resources and their potential impact on individuals in this coastal community. The evaluation encompasses physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the presence of supportive services, all viewed through the lens of breast cancer care.

The primary challenge in Corolla, and many similarly remote areas, is geographical. The Outer Banks, while beautiful, presents logistical hurdles. Access to specialized medical care, including oncology and radiology, is often limited within the immediate vicinity. Residents typically rely on practices located in nearby towns like Kitty Hawk or Nags Head, or even further afield in Elizabeth City or Norfolk, Virginia. This necessitates longer travel times for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care, which can significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. Determining the precise ratio within ZIP code 27927 is difficult due to the transient population and reliance on healthcare providers outside the immediate area. However, the overall physician density in Dare County, where Corolla is located, is generally lower than the national average. This scarcity is particularly pronounced for specialists. The lack of readily available oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer care is a significant concern, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Primary care availability is the first line of defense. A robust primary care network is essential for early detection through regular screenings and referrals. The availability of family physicians and internal medicine specialists in Corolla is a crucial starting point. Practices that prioritize preventive care, including mammograms and breast cancer awareness campaigns, are particularly valuable. These practices must also have established referral pathways to specialists and diagnostic facilities to ensure timely and appropriate care.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes practices that offer advanced imaging capabilities, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of small tumors. Practices with a dedicated breast health navigator or patient advocate are also highly desirable. These individuals can guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, providing crucial emotional support and practical assistance. The availability of on-site or readily accessible diagnostic services, such as biopsies, is another important factor, minimizing delays and patient inconvenience.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in areas with limited access to specialists. Practices that utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care for residents of Corolla. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from specialists or who have mobility issues. This technology can also facilitate remote consultations with radiologists to review imaging results and provide second opinions.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients is essential. These resources can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges associated with their illness. Support groups, either in-person or online, can provide a valuable sense of community and shared experience.

The integration of these elements creates a more complete picture of breast cancer care in Corolla. The combination of accessible primary care, access to diagnostic services, and a supportive network of specialists and mental health resources is ideal. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, telemedicine capabilities, and patient navigation services further enhances the quality of care.

The assessment of breast cancer care in Corolla must also consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. The availability of transportation services for patients who cannot drive themselves to appointments is important. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and support groups is essential to create a cohesive and patient-centered approach to care.

This analysis reveals the strengths and weaknesses of the breast cancer care landscape in Corolla. While the community faces geographical challenges, there are opportunities to improve access to care through strategic partnerships, technological advancements, and a focus on patient-centered services.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare resources available in Corolla, and to explore the broader healthcare landscape of Dare County, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that allow you to visualize physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, providing a more comprehensive and accessible view of the healthcare landscape. Explore the CartoChrome maps to gain a more in-depth understanding of the available resources and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.