27974, Shiloh, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27974, Shiloh, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.33 percent of the residents in 27974 has some form of health insurance. 34.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.41 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 27974 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 141 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27974. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 193 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 360 health care providers accessible to residents in 27974, Shiloh, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Shiloh, NC (ZIP Code 27974)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within and around Shiloh, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27974) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability and quality of primary care, access to specialists, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an assessment designed to illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem as it pertains to breast cancer patients.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referral to specialists are crucial. In Shiloh, assessing primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial diagnostic procedures. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau should be consulted to determine this ratio accurately for the specific ZIP code and the surrounding counties. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of primary care practices within the area is critical. Are practices clustered in one location, creating potential access challenges for residents in more rural areas? Public transportation options, or the lack thereof, also factor into accessibility.

The quality of primary care is equally important. Are primary care physicians (PCPs) actively promoting breast cancer screening guidelines, such as mammograms? Do they have established referral pathways to qualified radiologists and oncologists? Patient reviews, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the timeliness of care, the communication skills of the physicians, and the overall level of patient satisfaction. Examining the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is also essential. EHRs facilitate better communication between providers, ensuring that critical information, such as family history and previous mammogram results, is readily available to all healthcare professionals involved in a patient’s care.

Beyond primary care, access to specialists is paramount. This includes radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to Shiloh is a key factor. Does the local hospital or nearby medical centers have dedicated breast cancer centers? Are there established partnerships between primary care practices and specialists to ensure seamless referrals? The availability of specialized services, such as genetic counseling for patients with a family history of breast cancer, is also critical. The presence of support groups and patient navigators, who can guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, significantly improves the patient experience.

Technology plays an increasingly important role in modern healthcare, and its adoption in Shiloh's medical landscape is a crucial factor in this analysis. Telemedicine, for instance, can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Are primary care physicians and specialists offering telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, consultations, or even initial screenings? The availability of online patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their providers, also contributes to a more patient-centered approach. The use of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), can improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection.

The emotional and psychological well-being of breast cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it is an integral part of their overall health. The availability of mental health resources in Shiloh is therefore a significant consideration. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, specializing in oncology or working with cancer patients? Do local hospitals or cancer centers offer support groups or individual counseling services? Access to these resources is crucial for helping patients cope with the emotional challenges associated with diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive support, is a hallmark of a truly patient-centered approach.

Standout practices in the area should be identified. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in multiple areas, such as high physician-to-patient ratios, early adoption of technology, and a commitment to patient-centered care. These practices may have implemented innovative programs, such as patient navigation services, or have achieved high patient satisfaction scores. Examining the practices that have a strong focus on preventative care, including robust screening programs, should be a priority. Researching the practices' commitment to community outreach and education, such as offering free mammogram screenings or educational seminars, is also valuable.

The analysis of breast cancer care in Shiloh, NC (ZIP Code 27974) is a complex undertaking. It requires a detailed examination of the availability and quality of primary care, access to specialists, the adoption of technology, and the availability of mental health resources. While a comprehensive ranking is beyond the scope of this assessment, the factors discussed provide a framework for evaluating the local healthcare ecosystem. This analysis is not a static document; it should be continuously updated as new information becomes available and as the healthcare landscape evolves.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing complex data, enabling you to identify areas with limited access to care and to understand the broader context of healthcare disparities in the region.