27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.17 percent of the residents in 27978 has some form of health insurance. 44.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.99 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 27978 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 67 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27978. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 51 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 364 health care providers accessible to residents in 27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27978 and Primary Care in Stumpy Point

Analyzing healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer care, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 27978 (which encompasses Stumpy Point, NC) to evaluate the landscape of available primary care physicians and related resources. This evaluation will consider physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical elements in supporting patients navigating the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The foundation of accessible breast cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians. These physicians serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Stumpy Point, and the broader 27978 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians relative to the population, can create significant barriers. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, limited appointment availability, and increased travel distances to access care. This can be particularly problematic for individuals in rural areas like Stumpy Point, where transportation options may be limited. The impact of a low ratio is compounded when considering the specific needs of breast cancer patients, who require frequent check-ups, screenings, and specialist consultations.

Identifying standout practices within the 27978 ZIP code is vital. This involves looking beyond the raw numbers of physicians and examining the quality of care delivered. Practices that excel in breast cancer care often demonstrate several key characteristics. They may have established relationships with reputable oncology centers, facilitating seamless referrals for diagnostic imaging, biopsies, and treatment plans. They might implement robust patient education programs, providing information about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and self-examination techniques. Furthermore, these practices often prioritize a patient-centered approach, fostering open communication, empathy, and support throughout the patient journey. Investigating these aspects is paramount to understanding the quality of care available.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a significant factor in expanding healthcare access, particularly in underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and increasing convenience. In the context of breast cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions. It can also be used to connect patients with specialists located outside the immediate geographic area. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in 27978 is a key indicator of accessibility. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding their reach and providing convenient care options.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Mental health resources are therefore an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is critical for patients navigating the emotional challenges of the disease. This includes coping with anxiety, depression, fear, and body image issues. The availability of mental health resources in Stumpy Point and the surrounding area is therefore a crucial component of the overall breast cancer care landscape. This includes assessing the presence of mental health providers, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for the 27978 ZIP code is influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable environment, characterized by a reasonable physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices with strong referral networks, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest potential challenges in accessing breast cancer care, such as limited physician availability, a lack of specialized practices, limited telemedicine options, and a scarcity of mental health support.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio requires access to reliable data on the population of 27978 and the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code. This data can be obtained from sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board. Analyzing the patient-centered approach and referral networks of local practices necessitates gathering information through online reviews, patient surveys, and direct contact with the practices themselves. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining practice websites, contacting practices to inquire about virtual care options, and reviewing telehealth platforms used by local providers. Determining the availability of mental health resources requires identifying mental health providers in the area, researching support groups, and assessing the integration of mental health services within primary care practices.

The challenges of healthcare access in rural areas are well-documented. Limited resources, geographic isolation, and transportation barriers can all contribute to disparities in care. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, including efforts to recruit and retain physicians in underserved areas, promote telemedicine adoption, and expand access to mental health services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential to improving breast cancer care in Stumpy Point and other rural communities.

The impact of these factors on the quality of life for breast cancer patients cannot be overstated. Early detection, timely treatment, and comprehensive support are all critical to improving outcomes and ensuring that patients can live full and meaningful lives. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in 27978, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. It is a starting point for further investigation and action.

The data gleaned from this analysis can be further enhanced through the utilization of advanced mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and mental health resources. They can overlay demographic data, such as population density and socioeconomic indicators, to identify areas with the greatest need. CartoChrome maps can also be used to analyze travel times to healthcare facilities, identify transportation barriers, and assess the impact of telemedicine on access. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to visualize and understand the healthcare landscape in your community.