27976, South Mills, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27976, South Mills, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.65 percent of the residents in 27976 has some form of health insurance. 23.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.56 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 27976 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,224 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27976. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 586 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 232 health care providers accessible to residents in 27976, South Mills, North Carolina.

The analysis below examines breast cancer care considerations for residents of South Mills, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 27976 ZIP code. This evaluation considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive approach to breast cancer prevention, early detection, and ongoing care.

South Mills, a relatively rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The primary care physician (PCP) landscape is the foundation upon which breast cancer care is built. Early detection through regular screenings, patient education, and timely referrals to specialists are all initiated by PCPs. Therefore, understanding the density and capabilities of these providers is paramount.

Physician-to-patient ratios in 27976 are a critical metric. A low ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Data from reliable sources such as the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Department of Health and Human Services should be consulted to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio. Any analysis would need to consider the availability of family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and nurse practitioners, all of whom often serve as primary care providers. The availability of specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, in the surrounding areas, such as Elizabeth City, also impacts the overall quality of care.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This includes evaluating factors such as the use of electronic health records (EHRs), patient satisfaction scores, and the practice's commitment to preventative care, including breast cancer screenings. Practices that actively remind patients about screenings, offer educational materials, and have established referral pathways to specialists would be considered more proactive and effective. Reviews from patients and organizations such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can provide valuable insights.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element, particularly in a rural area. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. Practices that offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments or discussions about test results, are better positioned to serve their patients. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer-related mental health support is also increasingly important.

The integration of mental health resources into breast cancer care is becoming increasingly recognized as a critical component. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks to therapists and counselors specializing in cancer care are better equipped to provide comprehensive support. Screening for depression and anxiety, and providing support groups, are also important.

The analysis of these factors provides a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment. Practices are evaluated based on their performance in each of these areas. The scores are not just a numerical ranking but also reflect the overall quality of care available to patients in the area. A high score indicates a practice that is well-equipped to provide comprehensive breast cancer care, from prevention to treatment and ongoing support. A low score may highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine capabilities, or integrating mental health services.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for 27976 is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking the addition of new providers, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new resources. The goal is to provide patients with the most up-to-date information possible, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to improve breast cancer care in South Mills. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, this assessment can help healthcare providers improve their services and make them more accessible to patients. It can also empower patients to advocate for their own care and seek out the best possible options.

The accessibility of healthcare in rural areas is a challenge, but it is not insurmountable. By combining data-driven analysis with a commitment to patient-centered care, it is possible to improve breast cancer outcomes for all residents of South Mills. This includes advocating for policy changes that support rural healthcare, such as increasing funding for telemedicine and expanding access to specialists.

This analysis would ideally include a review of specific practices within the 27976 ZIP code. This would involve identifying the names and addresses of the practices, and gathering information on their services, staffing, and patient satisfaction scores. This level of detail would provide a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape and help patients make informed decisions.

The impact of social determinants of health, such as income, education, and access to transportation, also needs to be considered. These factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to access care and adhere to treatment plans. Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable outcomes.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the healthcare system, is another important consideration. Patient navigators can provide assistance with scheduling appointments, understanding insurance coverage, and accessing financial assistance programs.

The role of community organizations, such as the American Cancer Society, is also important. These organizations often provide educational resources, support groups, and financial assistance to patients. Collaborations between healthcare providers and community organizations can help to create a more comprehensive and supportive healthcare ecosystem.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape of South Mills and the surrounding areas, including the locations of medical practices, specialist availability, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform offers detailed visualizations that can help you gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resources in your community.