27938, Gatesville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27938, Gatesville, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.47 percent of the residents in 27938 has some form of health insurance. 46.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.40 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 27938 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 330 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27938. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 301 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 485 health care providers accessible to residents in 27938, Gatesville, North Carolina.

The analysis below provides an assessment of breast cancer care resources and primary care accessibility within the ZIP code 27938 (Gatesville, North Carolina) region. The focus includes physician availability, the quality of care, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis aims to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure concerning breast cancer and general primary care.

Gatesville, a small rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of primary care physicians is a foundational element of a strong healthcare system. Access to timely and comprehensive primary care directly impacts early detection and management of breast cancer. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and potentially more time dedicated to each patient. Data on the current physician-to-patient ratio in 27938 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the US Census Bureau, combined with information from the American Medical Association, can provide this critical information.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is critical. Are the practices equipped with modern diagnostic tools? Do they offer comprehensive breast cancer screening services, including mammograms and clinical breast exams? The presence of certified radiologists and trained technicians is essential. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs facilitate better communication between providers, improve care coordination, and allow for more efficient tracking of patient history and treatment plans. Practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, including regular screenings and patient education, should be prioritized.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The adoption rate of telemedicine by primary care practices in 27938 is a key consideration. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, potentially reducing the need for in-person visits and improving access to specialists. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a supporting factor for the success of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health is an often-overlooked but essential component of cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health resources is crucial for patients. Primary care practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to support their patients' overall well-being. The integration of mental health services into primary care can improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall quality of care.

Identifying standout practices within the 27938 ZIP code is vital. These practices should be recognized for their commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines, and the practice's involvement in community outreach and education programs. Practices that actively participate in breast cancer awareness campaigns and offer educational resources for patients demonstrate a commitment to the community's health.

The availability of specialists, particularly oncologists and surgeons, is another important aspect of breast cancer care. While primary care physicians play a crucial role in screening and early detection, patients often require specialized care from oncologists and surgeons. The proximity of these specialists to Gatesville and the ease of referral pathways from primary care practices are key considerations. The presence of a local hospital or clinic with a dedicated oncology department is a significant advantage.

The integration of technology into healthcare is transforming the way care is delivered. Beyond telemedicine, the use of patient portals, online appointment scheduling, and mobile health applications can improve patient engagement and streamline the healthcare process. Practices that embrace these technologies demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient convenience. The ability for patients to access their medical records online and communicate with their providers electronically can significantly improve their overall experience.

The overall ranking of primary care practices in 27938 should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the factors discussed above. This assessment should consider physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized services. The ranking should identify the practices that are best equipped to provide comprehensive and patient-centered breast cancer care.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular assessments and updates are essential to ensure that the information remains current and relevant. The availability of new technologies, changes in healthcare policies, and shifts in the local population can all impact the quality and accessibility of care. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the community has access to the best possible healthcare services.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gatesville and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of specific services, and the demographics of the population, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.