27942, Harrellsville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27942, Harrellsville, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.99 percent of the residents in 27942 has some form of health insurance. 68.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.00 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 27942 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 69 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27942. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 226 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 668 health care providers accessible to residents in 27942, Harrellsville, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Harrellsville, NC (ZIP Code 27942)

Analyzing the breast cancer landscape in Harrellsville, North Carolina (ZIP code 27942) requires a multi-faceted approach. We need to examine the availability and quality of primary care, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, and the integration of supportive care elements. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering key factors crucial for patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon accessible and competent primary care. In Harrellsville, a critical first step is evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced preventative care, including mammograms and regular checkups. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau will be essential to determine this ratio accurately. The score will reflect the degree to which this ratio meets or falls short of state and national averages.

Beyond raw numbers, we must assess the quality of primary care practices. This includes evaluating factors like patient reviews, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) for improved communication and data management, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, such as proactively scheduling mammograms for eligible patients, will receive higher scores.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. This involves researching practices known for their patient-centered care, their commitment to early detection, and their ability to navigate patients through the complex healthcare system. This research would involve reviewing publicly available information, including patient testimonials and practice websites, to determine if any practices are particularly well-regarded.

The presence of specialized breast cancer services directly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." This includes access to diagnostic imaging, such as mammography and ultrasound, and referral pathways to oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists. The score will reflect the proximity of these services and the ease with which patients can access them. A lack of local specialized services necessitates travel, potentially delaying treatment and increasing patient burden.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Harrellsville. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive counseling, and attend support groups remotely. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine for breast cancer care will receive higher scores. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and online educational resources.

Mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have profound psychological effects, and access to mental health support can significantly improve patient outcomes. The "Breast Cancer Score" will consider the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology. This includes assessing the number of mental health professionals in the area and the availability of support groups, both in-person and online. The score will also reflect the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, such as referrals from primary care physicians and oncologists.

Another critical factor is the availability of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial strain can negatively impact patient outcomes. The "Breast Cancer Score" will consider the availability of resources that help patients navigate the financial aspects of their care. This includes information on insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and patient navigation services.

The integration of patient navigation services is another key indicator. Patient navigators help patients navigate the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and provide emotional support. The presence of these services will significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score."

The score will also consider the availability of educational resources for patients. This includes information on breast cancer prevention, early detection, treatment options, and survivorship. Practices and organizations that provide these resources will receive higher scores.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Harrellsville (ZIP code 27942) will be a composite measure reflecting the availability and quality of primary care, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and other factors. It will be a dynamic assessment, subject to change as healthcare services evolve.

For a more detailed and visually engaging understanding of the healthcare landscape in Harrellsville, including the location of medical facilities, physician density, and the availability of specific services, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive and intuitive analysis.