27986, Winton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27986, Winton, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 46.20 percent of the residents in 27986 has some form of health insurance. 24.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 32.29 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 27986 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 283 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27986. An estimate of 0 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 34 health care providers accessible to residents in 27986, Winton, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27986 and Primary Care Availability in Winton**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 27986 and the town of Winton, North Carolina, examining physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive breast cancer care landscape. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, though it's important to acknowledge that a definitive numerical score is challenging to create due to data limitations and the complexity of the healthcare system. Instead, this analysis will offer a qualitative assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Access**

A fundamental aspect of breast cancer care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Winton, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Low physician-to-patient ratios can lead to delayed diagnoses and limited access to care. Data on this ratio within ZIP code 27986 and Winton is essential, though publicly available data sources can be limited. The presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics in the area can improve access, particularly for underserved populations. These clinics often have sliding-scale fees and offer a range of services, including primary care.

The physical proximity of PCPs to residents in Winton is another crucial consideration. Long travel times can be a significant barrier to accessing care, especially for individuals with limited transportation options or those facing mobility challenges. Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, within a reasonable distance is vital for comprehensive breast cancer care. Patients in Winton may need to travel to larger cities or regional medical centers for specialized treatment, which can add to the burden of their care.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics**

Identifying standout practices within and around ZIP code 27986 involves examining several factors. These include the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of best practices in breast cancer screening and treatment. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including mammography, ultrasound, and biopsies, are highly valuable. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and nurses, is another key indicator of quality care.

Patient reviews and ratings provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Online platforms, such as Healthgrades and Vitals, offer a glimpse into patient satisfaction levels, although it's important to recognize that these reviews may not always be representative. Practices that prioritize patient communication, provide clear explanations of treatment options, and offer emotional support often receive higher ratings.

The adoption of evidence-based guidelines and protocols for breast cancer screening and treatment is a crucial element. Practices that adhere to these guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Cancer Society or the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care. Regular audits and quality improvement initiatives also indicate a dedication to continuous improvement.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Winton. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some diagnostic procedures can reduce travel burdens and improve patient convenience. The adoption of telemedicine technologies by practices in ZIP code 27986 is a significant factor in our assessment.

The availability of telehealth services, such as virtual consultations with oncologists or breast cancer specialists, is particularly important. These services can provide patients with access to expert advice and support, even if they live far from a major medical center. The use of remote monitoring technologies, such as wearable devices that track vital signs, can also help to improve patient outcomes.

However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors. These include the availability of reliable internet access, the patient's comfort level with technology, and the ability of healthcare providers to effectively communicate and build rapport with patients remotely. Practices that offer training and support to patients to use telemedicine platforms are more likely to achieve successful outcomes.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges are common. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources and support services is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care.

Practices that offer on-site mental health services, such as counseling or therapy, are particularly valuable. These services can provide patients with immediate access to support and guidance. The presence of social workers or patient navigators who can connect patients with mental health resources in the community is also essential.

Support groups and educational programs can provide patients with a sense of community and empower them to cope with their diagnosis and treatment. These groups can offer a safe space for patients to share their experiences, learn from others, and receive emotional support. The availability of these resources within the community is an important factor in the overall assessment.

**Conclusion: A Qualitative Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed above, a "Breast Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 27986 and primary care availability in Winton would be a qualitative assessment. The score would consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

A high score would indicate:

* A favorable physician-to-patient ratio, with adequate access to PCPs.
* The presence of high-quality practices offering comprehensive breast cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
* Widespread adoption of telemedicine technologies to improve access and convenience.
* Robust mental health resources and support services for patients.

A low score would indicate the opposite, highlighting challenges in access, quality, and support.

Further investigation is needed to gather specific data for ZIP code 27986 and Winton. This includes analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption rates, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources.

**Call to Action**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 27986 and Winton, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and potential areas of need, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare access and resource allocation, supporting informed decision-making and improving patient outcomes.