28315, Aberdeen, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28315, Aberdeen, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.73 percent of the residents in 28315 has some form of health insurance. 29.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.86 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 28315 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,691 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28315. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,922 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 759 health care providers accessible to residents in 28315, Aberdeen, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Aberdeen, NC (ZIP Code 28315)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28315 (Aberdeen, North Carolina), focusing on physician availability, quality of care, and access to supportive resources. The goal is to assess the landscape of care for individuals facing breast cancer diagnoses and treatment, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement. This analysis considers factors beyond simple survival rates, incorporating elements of patient experience and holistic well-being.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is access to qualified medical professionals. In Aberdeen, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment initiation. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and specifically its publicly available datasets, should be consulted to obtain the most current and accurate PCP-to-patient ratio for this region. The availability of PCPs directly impacts early detection, as they are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or requiring routine screenings.

Beyond PCPs, the presence of specialists is paramount. The analysis will consider the availability of oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and other specialists crucial for breast cancer treatment. The proximity of these specialists, and the ease with which patients can access them, is a significant factor in the overall score. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, or a center with a specialized breast cancer program, would significantly improve the score. These centers often offer comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, all under one roof.

Standout practices within the area deserve special recognition. Practices demonstrating a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care, as evidenced by patient reviews, accreditations, and participation in clinical trials, would be highlighted. This would involve a review of online patient feedback platforms, such as Healthgrades and Vitals, to gauge patient satisfaction and identify practices consistently delivering positive experiences. Furthermore, the analysis will explore whether these practices are actively involved in research and innovation, further enhancing their score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even certain types of therapy remotely can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local medical practices offer telemedicine options, and the types of services available through these platforms. The ease of use, technological infrastructure, and patient satisfaction with telemedicine services would all be assessed.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet vital, component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology care. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, is also considered. Access to these resources, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, can significantly improve the patient experience and quality of life.

Primary care availability in Aberdeen is a crucial element of the overall score. The accessibility of PCPs for routine screenings, preventative care, and referrals to specialists is paramount. This analysis will assess the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, the average wait times for appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers, which often serve underserved populations, will also be considered.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient navigation services. These services help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing information, and offering emotional support. The presence of dedicated navigators, or programs offering these services, can significantly improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Furthermore, the analysis will evaluate the availability of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can create additional stress for patients. The availability of programs that help patients with the cost of treatment, medication, and other expenses would be considered a positive factor.

Finally, the analysis will consider the overall community support for breast cancer patients. The presence of local organizations dedicated to breast cancer awareness, support, and advocacy would be a positive indicator. This includes the availability of educational resources, support groups, and fundraising events.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Aberdeen, NC (ZIP code 28315) will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of these factors. The weighting of each factor will be based on its relative importance in contributing to high-quality, accessible, and patient-centered breast cancer care. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

This detailed analysis is designed to provide valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. By understanding the current landscape of breast cancer care in Aberdeen, stakeholders can work together to improve access, quality, and outcomes for all individuals affected by this disease.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. They can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape, helping you identify areas of need and opportunities for improvement.