27968, Rodanthe, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27968, Rodanthe, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.04 percent of the residents in 27968 has some form of health insurance. 26.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.04 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 27968 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27968. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 36 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9 health care providers accessible to residents in 27968, Rodanthe, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Rodanthe, NC (ZIP Code 27968)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within the Rodanthe, North Carolina (ZIP code 27968) area requires a nuanced approach, particularly when assessing resources relevant to breast cancer care. This analysis will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike.

Rodanthe, a small coastal community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its relative isolation and seasonal population fluctuations impact resource availability and access. The success of breast cancer care hinges on early detection, prompt diagnosis, and effective treatment, all of which are heavily reliant on the primary care infrastructure.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of this analysis. The presence of readily accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) is critical for breast cancer screening, including mammograms and clinical breast exams. The number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, or in immediately adjacent areas easily accessible to Rodanthe residents, is a primary indicator. A low number of PCPs, combined with a high population density, would negatively impact the score. Furthermore, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for preventative care significantly boosts the score.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care. This can delay crucial screenings and potentially impact the timely diagnosis of breast cancer. The analysis must consider the overall population served by the available PCPs, taking into account both permanent residents and seasonal visitors. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services are essential for calculating this ratio.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating the quality of care provided by local medical facilities. This assessment includes factors like the availability of on-site mammography services, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management, and the practice's participation in quality improvement programs focused on breast cancer screening and treatment. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offer comprehensive breast health programs, and have a track record of positive patient outcomes will receive higher scores. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. The analysis will evaluate the availability of telemedicine consultations for primary care visits, breast cancer screening follow-up, and specialist consultations. Practices that offer telemedicine options for breast health services, such as remote consultations with radiologists or oncologists, will receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Rodanthe area or easily accessible to its residents. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors, will also be evaluated. Practices that integrate mental health services into their overall breast cancer care programs will be highly rated.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of these factors. Each factor will be assigned a specific weight based on its relative importance in the overall quality of breast cancer care. For example, primary care availability and physician-to-patient ratios might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption, depending on the specific needs of the Rodanthe community.

The final score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing residents and healthcare providers to quickly understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. The score will be accompanied by a detailed report outlining the specific findings and recommendations for improvement. This report will identify areas where healthcare access can be improved, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, or strengthening mental health support.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specialized breast cancer services in nearby areas, such as cancer centers and surgical oncologists. While these services may not be directly located within Rodanthe, their accessibility is crucial for providing comprehensive care. The analysis will assess the travel time and transportation options for patients needing specialized care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a numerical rating; it's a tool for driving positive change. By identifying areas for improvement, the analysis can help healthcare providers, community leaders, and policymakers work together to enhance breast cancer care in Rodanthe. This includes advocating for increased funding for healthcare services, promoting patient education, and fostering collaborations between healthcare providers.

The goal is to empower residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for the resources they need to receive the best possible care. This will contribute to improved health outcomes and a stronger, healthier community.

To visualize and better understand the geographic distribution of these healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and the availability of support services, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, allowing you to easily identify areas with high and low scores and to explore the underlying data in more detail.