28312, Fayetteville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28312, Fayetteville, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.00 percent of the residents in 28312 has some form of health insurance. 43.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.15 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 28312 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,749 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28312. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,587 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,620 health care providers accessible to residents in 28312, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Fayetteville, NC (ZIP Code 28312)**

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape in Fayetteville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28312) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, a critical entry point for early detection and referral, alongside an assessment of the overall healthcare ecosystem's capacity to address breast cancer concerns. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, and examine the adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for the region.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. In ZIP Code 28312, the physician-to-patient ratio plays a crucial role. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Assessing this ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau. This data provides insights into the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the zip code and the population they serve. This is a key factor in our overall score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are paramount. We need to identify practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular mammograms and clinical breast exams. Practices that actively educate patients about breast cancer risk factors and promote self-exams are particularly valuable. Researching individual practice websites, patient reviews, and local healthcare directories can help identify those practices that excel in these areas. Are there practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments? This can significantly impact access for working individuals.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who may face transportation challenges or live in more rural areas within the zip code. Examining which primary care practices offer telemedicine services, and the types of services available, is essential. This includes the availability of virtual consultations for breast cancer risk assessment, discussing test results, and providing emotional support.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a vital component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is crucial for supporting patients through their journey. Assessing the availability of these resources within the 28312 zip code requires investigating local hospitals, cancer centers, and community health organizations. Does the local hospital have a dedicated oncology support group? Are there mental health professionals who accept insurance and have experience in this area?

Standout practices within the 28312 zip code deserve specific recognition. These practices may demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches to screening and treatment, or a strong commitment to community outreach. Identifying these practices requires a combination of factors: patient reviews, physician ratings, and the practice's adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment. It’s important to look for practices that offer comprehensive services, including access to genetic counseling, breast imaging, and surgical consultations.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 28312 will be a composite measure, weighing each of the factors discussed above. A higher score would indicate a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to address breast cancer concerns, with a strong emphasis on early detection, comprehensive care, and emotional support. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing access to mental health resources.

The analysis also needs to consider the broader healthcare landscape in Fayetteville. The presence of a major hospital system with a dedicated cancer center is a significant advantage. The hospital's reputation, the availability of specialized breast cancer surgeons, oncologists, and radiation therapists are all critical factors. Are there clinical trials available in the area? This can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

Furthermore, the analysis needs to consider the socioeconomic factors that may impact breast cancer care. Are there disparities in access to care based on race, ethnicity, or income? Are there programs in place to address these disparities, such as free or low-cost mammograms for uninsured or underinsured individuals? This is a critical element of a comprehensive assessment.

In conclusion, evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 28312 requires a thorough investigation of primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of specialized cancer care facilities. The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem and for identifying areas where improvements are needed. This information is vital for patients, healthcare providers, and community organizations working to improve breast cancer outcomes in Fayetteville.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician density, the location of cancer centers, and the availability of support services, providing valuable insights for patients and healthcare professionals alike.