27970, Roper, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27970, Roper, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.14 percent of the residents in 27970 has some form of health insurance. 53.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.01 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 27970 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 643 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27970. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 914 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 274 health care providers accessible to residents in 27970, Roper, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27970 and Primary Care in Roper

The following analysis examines the availability of breast cancer-related care within ZIP code 27970, focusing specifically on the town of Roper, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas. This assessment considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of comprehensive breast cancer care. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, enabling informed decision-making for residents and healthcare providers alike.

Roper, a small community in northeastern North Carolina, faces unique challenges in accessing healthcare. Rural communities often grapple with limited resources and geographic barriers, impacting the availability and accessibility of specialized medical services. Breast cancer care, requiring a multidisciplinary approach, is particularly susceptible to these challenges.

One of the primary indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas like Roper, this ratio is often significantly lower than in urban centers. This means fewer physicians are available to serve a larger population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and delayed diagnosis. Accurately determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio specifically for breast cancer specialists within ZIP code 27970 requires detailed data analysis. However, publicly available information on the general physician density in this region suggests a potential scarcity of specialists, highlighting the importance of understanding how residents currently access care.

Identifying standout medical practices within the area is crucial. While a comprehensive list is beyond the scope of this analysis, focusing on practices that prioritize preventative care, offer advanced diagnostic imaging, and provide access to specialized breast cancer surgeons and oncologists is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offering services like breast cancer screening, diagnostic mammograms, and potentially access to clinical trials. Examining the patient reviews, accreditation, and affiliations of local practices can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital in addressing healthcare access challenges, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of supportive care. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption by primary care physicians and specialists in the 27970 ZIP code is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital tools for patient education and communication.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis is profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the local healthcare system is vital. This includes evaluating whether these professionals specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. Additionally, access to support groups, patient navigators, and other resources that provide emotional support and guidance can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Furthermore, the integration of primary care physicians (PCPs) into the breast cancer care continuum is crucial. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients, playing a critical role in screening, early detection, and coordinating care with specialists. Evaluating the level of collaboration between PCPs and breast cancer specialists in the 27970 ZIP code is important. This includes assessing the effectiveness of referral pathways, the sharing of patient information, and the provision of ongoing support for patients throughout their treatment journey.

Another critical factor to consider is the availability of transportation. Rural communities often lack reliable public transportation, making it difficult for patients to access medical appointments, particularly for those undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of transportation assistance programs, such as volunteer driver services or transportation vouchers, is essential.

Moreover, the presence of patient education resources is vital. Access to reliable and understandable information about breast cancer, treatment options, and support services can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. Evaluating the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and support groups, is essential.

Finally, evaluating the overall healthcare infrastructure within the 27970 ZIP code is important. This includes assessing the availability of hospital beds, operating rooms, and other resources that are necessary to provide comprehensive breast cancer care.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape in and around Roper, North Carolina, within the 27970 ZIP code, presents both challenges and opportunities. While the rural nature of the area may present obstacles to access, the integration of telemedicine, the presence of dedicated medical practices, and the availability of mental health resources are all vital components of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. Further in-depth analysis, including detailed data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice-specific information, and the extent of telemedicine adoption, is crucial for a complete understanding.

For a more detailed visualization of healthcare resources and access within ZIP code 27970, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare providers, identifying areas with limited access, and informing healthcare planning and resource allocation.