27949, Kitty Hawk, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27949, Kitty Hawk, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.05 percent of the residents in 27949 has some form of health insurance. 31.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.12 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 27949 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,443 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27949. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,251 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 846 health care providers accessible to residents in 27949, Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Kitty Hawk, NC (ZIP Code 27949)

Analyzing the breast cancer landscape within Kitty Hawk, North Carolina (ZIP code 27949) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the quality and accessibility of care, focusing on factors crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive support for patients. This analysis will consider physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, ultimately providing a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These physicians serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screenings, referrals, and ongoing health management. In Kitty Hawk, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can create significant barriers to timely care. It can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and increased patient anxiety. Conversely, a higher ratio, coupled with efficient appointment scheduling and patient communication, indicates a more favorable environment for breast cancer prevention and management. Assessing the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 27949 ZIP code, alongside the population size, is the starting point for determining this critical ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are vital. The presence of certified mammography facilities within or near the practices is a significant advantage. On-site mammography streamlines the screening process, reducing the time and effort required for patients to receive this crucial diagnostic tool. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness and offer educational materials further enhance their value. These practices demonstrate a commitment to proactive patient education and empowerment, leading to earlier detection and improved outcomes. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key factor. EHRs facilitate seamless communication between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers, ensuring coordinated care and preventing crucial information from being lost.

The adoption of telemedicine within primary care practices in Kitty Hawk presents both opportunities and challenges. Telemedicine can expand access to care, particularly for patients in remote areas or those with mobility limitations. Virtual consultations can facilitate initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and consultations with specialists. However, the success of telemedicine depends on several factors. It requires reliable internet connectivity, patient access to necessary technology, and the willingness of both patients and physicians to embrace this technology. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment would significantly impact the overall score.

The availability of specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is also crucial. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer require the expertise of these specialists for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing care. The proximity of these specialists to Kitty Hawk is a critical consideration. The ability to access these specialists within a reasonable timeframe is essential for ensuring timely and effective treatment. Travel distance, wait times for appointments, and the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, all influence the patient experience and contribute to the overall score.

Mental health resources play a significant role in the well-being of breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is a critical component of comprehensive care. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, can provide patients with a sense of community and support. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including referrals and coordination with oncologists and other healthcare providers, is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Standout practices in Kitty Hawk, if any, would be those that excel in multiple areas. This would include those with a high physician-to-patient ratio, on-site mammography, robust EHR systems, active patient education programs, and a commitment to telemedicine. These practices would demonstrate a proactive approach to breast cancer prevention and management, offering patients a comprehensive and coordinated care experience. The practices that prioritize patient communication, provide clear and accessible information, and offer a supportive environment would be highly regarded.

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Kitty Hawk, NC (ZIP code 27949) is a composite measure reflecting all the factors discussed. It's not a single number, but a nuanced assessment. The score would be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of specialists, and the presence of mental health resources. The presence of standout practices would positively impact the score, while any significant deficiencies in any of these areas would negatively impact it. The score is a dynamic metric, constantly evolving based on changes in the healthcare landscape.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of these resources, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools to visualize healthcare data, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in Kitty Hawk and surrounding areas.