27962, Plymouth, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27962, Plymouth, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.14 percent of the residents in 27962 has some form of health insurance. 44.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.67 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 27962 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,760 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27962. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,340 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 276 health care providers accessible to residents in 27962, Plymouth, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Plymouth, NC (ZIP Code 27962)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within Plymouth, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27962), focusing on primary care physician availability and the overall quality of care accessible to residents. We'll evaluate key factors influencing patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests heavily on accessible and responsive primary care. In Plymouth, assessing primary care availability is crucial. A low physician-to-patient ratio can hinder timely diagnosis and treatment. This ratio reflects the number of patients each primary care physician is responsible for. A higher ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from reputable sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the American Medical Association (AMA) are essential for calculating this ratio accurately. The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of breast cancer screening.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are physicians actively promoting breast cancer screening guidelines, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams? Are they proficient in identifying risk factors, including family history and genetic predispositions? The practices that excel in these areas are the ones that should be recognized as "standout practices." These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive screening protocols, and strong referral networks to specialists, including oncologists and surgeons. Identifying these practices requires a detailed review of their patient outcomes, adherence to screening guidelines, and patient satisfaction surveys.

Telemedicine has emerged as a critical tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Plymouth. Its adoption can significantly impact breast cancer care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be a significant barrier to care. It also facilitates remote monitoring, allowing physicians to track patient progress and provide support between in-person appointments. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of primary care practices in Plymouth involves determining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and the use of telehealth platforms.

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care, but it is absolutely critical. A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a crucial factor in patient well-being and recovery. Assessing the mental health support available in Plymouth involves identifying mental health providers, evaluating their experience with cancer patients, and assessing the availability of support groups and educational resources.

The effectiveness of the local healthcare system also depends on the collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists. Strong referral networks are essential for ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care. This includes prompt referrals to oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists. Evaluating the referral patterns of primary care practices in Plymouth is essential to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The overall quality of breast cancer care in Plymouth is a complex interplay of various factors. It is not simply about the number of doctors or the availability of technology. It is about the commitment of healthcare providers to patient-centered care, the integration of mental health support, and the efficiency of the referral process. A comprehensive assessment requires a multifaceted approach, gathering data from various sources and analyzing it to identify strengths and weaknesses.

To understand the current status, it's important to evaluate the practices in Plymouth. Identify those with advanced screening technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of early-stage cancers. The presence of patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, is another key indicator of quality care. These navigators help patients schedule appointments, understand treatment options, and access financial assistance.

The role of community resources cannot be ignored. Local hospitals and clinics often partner with community organizations to provide educational programs, support groups, and financial assistance to breast cancer patients. Assessing the availability of these resources is an integral part of the overall evaluation. This includes identifying support groups, educational workshops, and financial assistance programs.

The information gathered from these sources can be used to create a "Breast Cancer Score" for the healthcare environment in Plymouth. This score can be based on a weighted average of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. The score can then be used to compare Plymouth's healthcare environment to other communities and to identify areas for improvement.

The data collection process should involve a thorough review of public health data, physician directories, and patient surveys. It also involves site visits to healthcare facilities, interviews with healthcare providers, and consultations with community stakeholders. This comprehensive approach ensures that the assessment is accurate, reliable, and representative of the local healthcare environment.

By analyzing the data, we can identify the challenges and opportunities for improving breast cancer care in Plymouth. This information can then be used to inform policy decisions, allocate resources, and implement targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that is accessible, responsive, and patient-centered.

The final step involves presenting the findings in a clear and concise manner. This includes creating a report that summarizes the key findings, provides recommendations for improvement, and identifies areas for further research. The report should be accessible to a wide audience, including healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members.

For a more visual and interactive exploration of the healthcare landscape in Plymouth, including the location of primary care physicians, specialist offices, and community resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, providing valuable insights into healthcare access and resource distribution.