Health Scores Near 27959, Nags Head, North Carolina
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The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27959, Nags Head, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 94.26 percent of the residents in 27959 has some form of health insurance. 39.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.98 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 27959 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 432 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27959. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,090 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 840 health care providers accessible to residents in 27959, Nags Head, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 27959, Nags Head, North Carolina
| Breast Cancer Score | 44 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 72 |
| Provider Score | 19 |
| Hospital Score | 48 |
| Travel Score | 45 |
| 27959 | Nags Head | North Carolina | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Nags Head (ZIP Code 27959)**
The Outer Banks region of North Carolina, particularly the coastal community of Nags Head (ZIP Code 27959), presents a unique environment for healthcare delivery. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services, with a specific focus on factors relevant to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and support, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by the area's demographics and geography. The goal is to create a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, ranking the quality of care and resources available to patients in this area.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Access**
A fundamental aspect of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Nags Head, and the surrounding Dare County, this ratio can be affected by several factors. The seasonal influx of tourists significantly increases the population at certain times of the year, potentially straining healthcare resources. Furthermore, the relatively rural nature of the area can make it challenging to attract and retain physicians, particularly specialists. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is critical, as they often serve as the first point of contact for patients and can facilitate timely referrals for breast cancer screenings and specialist consultations. A low PCP-to-patient ratio, or a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment.
**Standout Practices and Their Impact**
Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 27959 requires an evaluation of several factors. These include the availability of on-site mammography services, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information sharing, the implementation of patient-centered care models, and the integration of preventive care protocols. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and prioritize patient education are likely to score higher in this analysis. Practices that also provide financial assistance or work with local support groups to make breast cancer care more accessible will also be considered.
**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role**
Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access in geographically isolated areas like Nags Head. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices can reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments or discussions about test results. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer screening, such as remote consultations with radiologists or oncologists, can also enhance the speed and efficiency of the diagnostic process. The success of telemedicine adoption depends on factors like internet connectivity, patient and provider willingness to use the technology, and the integration of telemedicine platforms with existing EHR systems.
**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance**
A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care. This analysis considers the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the Nags Head area. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral networks with mental health providers will be given higher scores. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also an important factor, as these groups provide patients with opportunities to connect with others who have shared experiences.
**Specific Considerations for Breast Cancer Care**
Beyond the general aspects of primary care, the analysis will consider factors directly related to breast cancer care. This includes the availability of facilities that offer screening mammograms, diagnostic mammograms, and breast ultrasound. The presence of a breast cancer navigator, who can guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is also a significant advantage. The availability of genetic counseling services for patients with a family history of breast cancer is another important consideration. Practices that have established relationships with oncologists and surgeons specializing in breast cancer care will be viewed favorably.
**Challenges and Opportunities**
Nags Head, like many rural areas, faces specific challenges in delivering healthcare. These include the potential for a shortage of specialists, limited access to advanced imaging technologies, and the need to address the social determinants of health, such as transportation and financial barriers. However, the community also has opportunities to leverage its strengths. The close-knit nature of the community can foster strong patient-provider relationships. The increasing adoption of telemedicine can help bridge geographical gaps. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local organizations, and community leaders can improve access to care and promote breast cancer awareness.
**Scoring Methodology and Ranking**
The "Breast Cancer Score" will be based on a weighted scoring system, with factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specific services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources contributing to the overall score. The ranking will be based on a combination of publicly available data, practice websites, and potentially, patient reviews and feedback. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality of breast cancer-related care in Nags Head.
**Conclusion**
The analysis of breast cancer care in Nags Head, ZIP Code 27959, reveals a complex interplay of challenges and opportunities. Addressing the unique needs of this coastal community requires a multifaceted approach that considers physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the specific requirements of breast cancer screening and treatment. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the quality of care and identifying areas for improvement.
**Call to Action**
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