27928, Creswell, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27928, Creswell, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.15 percent of the residents in 27928 has some form of health insurance. 39.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.46 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 27928 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 226 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27928. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 510 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 305 health care providers accessible to residents in 27928, Creswell, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Creswell, NC (ZIP Code 27928)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Creswell, North Carolina (ZIP code 27928) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, the potential for early detection and treatment, and the overall support system for patients facing this diagnosis. It aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure. This score, while not a single numerical value, is a qualitative evaluation based on various factors.

The foundation of breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact, playing a crucial role in screening, education, and referral. Creswell, a relatively rural community, likely faces challenges in PCP availability. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, allowing for more proactive preventative care. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, can shed light on the current PCP-to-population ratio in Creswell.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and scope of primary care services are paramount. Do local PCPs offer comprehensive women's health services, including routine breast exams and education on self-examination techniques? Are they actively promoting mammogram screenings, adhering to the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society? Practices that prioritize preventative care and patient education will naturally score higher in this analysis. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers is also a key factor. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing, ensuring that patients' medical histories and screening results are readily available to specialists if needed.

Specialty care, particularly oncology and radiology, is another critical component. The presence of oncologists and radiologists within or near Creswell is vital for timely diagnosis and treatment. The distance patients must travel for these services significantly impacts their overall care experience. Longer travel times can lead to increased stress, logistical difficulties, and potential delays in treatment initiation. The availability of specialized imaging services, such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, is also essential. Access to these technologies, either locally or within a reasonable distance, is a significant factor in the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The ability to consult with specialists remotely can significantly improve access to care, reducing the need for travel and providing patients with timely expert advice. The extent to which local practices and hospitals have embraced telemedicine for breast cancer-related services, such as follow-up appointments, consultations, and educational sessions, will be factored into the score. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow will be viewed favorably.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can take a significant toll on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive care. The score will consider the presence of these resources in Creswell and the ease with which patients can access them. Partnerships between healthcare providers and mental health professionals can create a more integrated and supportive care environment.

Standout practices within the Creswell area, if any, will be identified based on their commitment to providing high-quality breast cancer care. These practices may be recognized for their focus on preventative care, their use of technology, their patient-centered approach, or their integration of mental health services. Identifying and highlighting these practices can serve as a benchmark for other providers and provide patients with valuable information when choosing a healthcare provider.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Creswell will be influenced by the following key factors: PCP availability and quality of care, access to specialty care (oncology and radiology), telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. This score is not a simple ranking but a comprehensive assessment of the local healthcare infrastructure's capacity to support breast cancer patients.

The assessment process involves gathering data from various sources, including public health records, healthcare provider websites, and patient reviews. Data on physician-to-patient ratios, the types of services offered, the availability of specialized equipment, and the integration of telemedicine will be collected and analyzed. Patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including wait times, communication with healthcare providers, and the overall quality of care. This data will be synthesized to provide a comprehensive picture of the breast cancer care landscape in Creswell.

The final analysis will not only assess the current state of care but also identify areas for improvement. This may include recommendations for increasing PCP availability, expanding access to specialty care, promoting telemedicine adoption, and strengthening mental health support services. The goal is to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, helping to improve the quality of breast cancer care in Creswell.

This analysis, however, is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and evolving treatment guidelines will all impact the "Breast Cancer Score" over time. Regular updates and reassessments are essential to ensure that the analysis remains relevant and informative.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Creswell, including the locations of healthcare providers, the availability of specific services, and the demographics of the population, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful visualization tool, allowing you to explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and gain valuable insights into the accessibility of care in your community.