27953, Manns Harbor, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27953, Manns Harbor, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.12 percent of the residents in 27953 has some form of health insurance. 42.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.59 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 27953 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 106 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27953. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 197 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 840 health care providers accessible to residents in 27953, Manns Harbor, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Manns Harbor, NC (ZIP Code 27953)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care access and quality within the Manns Harbor, North Carolina (ZIP code 27953) area. It considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape for individuals seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Manns Harbor, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges in this regard. The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the timely detection of breast cancer. Early detection is paramount, as it significantly improves survival rates. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per doctor, can strain resources and potentially delay appointments. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access and potentially more personalized care. Analyzing the local physician-to-patient ratio is crucial to understanding the baseline level of access.

The primary care landscape in Manns Harbor must be examined to assess the availability of providers accepting new patients. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings like mammograms, are critical. The presence of dedicated women's health specialists within primary care practices is a significant advantage, as they often possess specialized knowledge and experience in breast health. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns is another key indicator of accessible care.

Beyond the immediate availability of primary care, the quality of care is paramount. This includes the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Practices that adhere to recommendations from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care. The presence of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as mammography and ultrasound, streamlines the diagnostic process, reducing delays and patient anxiety. The availability of these services within the community minimizes the need for patients to travel long distances for essential care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Manns Harbor. Telemedicine offers significant benefits, including increased access to specialists, reduced travel time and costs, and improved patient convenience. Practices that utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. The ability to connect patients with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists remotely can be particularly beneficial in a community with limited access to these resources. The adoption of secure and user-friendly telemedicine platforms is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to this technology.

Mental health support is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for patients navigating the complexities of their illness. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. This might involve on-site counselors, referrals to local mental health providers, or the integration of mental health screenings into routine care.

Specific practices in the 27953 ZIP code warrant closer scrutiny. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating their adherence to best practices, patient satisfaction scores, and the range of services offered. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive diagnostic services, and integrate telemedicine are likely to be highly rated. Patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the quality of communication, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall level of care. Analyzing this information helps identify practices that excel in providing breast cancer care.

The availability of resources beyond the immediate care setting also impacts the overall quality of care. This includes access to support groups, patient education materials, and financial assistance programs. Community organizations that offer these services play a vital role in supporting patients throughout their journey. The presence of these resources indicates a supportive community that is committed to providing comprehensive care.

The analysis should also consider the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral processes are important factors. The presence of a local hospital or medical center with a dedicated cancer center is a significant advantage. These centers often offer comprehensive care, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical services.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the demographic characteristics of the population. Factors such as age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can impact breast cancer risk and access to care. Understanding these demographics helps tailor healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the community. This includes providing culturally sensitive care and addressing any disparities in access to care.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Manns Harbor requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader community support system. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. This information is essential for patients, healthcare providers, and community leaders working to improve breast cancer outcomes in Manns Harbor.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Manns Harbor and visualize the distribution of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing data, identifying patterns, and making informed decisions about healthcare access and planning.