28318, Autryville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28318, Autryville, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.19 percent of the residents in 28318 has some form of health insurance. 37.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.21 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 28318 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 673 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28318. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 653 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,655 health care providers accessible to residents in 28318, Autryville, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Autryville, NC (ZIP Code 28318)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28318, encompassing the town of Autryville, North Carolina, and surrounding areas. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, considering factors crucial for patient well-being, including physician access, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. This evaluation aims to assist residents in making informed decisions about their healthcare and to highlight areas for potential improvement within the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Autryville, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. A low PCP-to-population ratio can translate into delayed diagnoses and treatment, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for initial screenings and referrals. The analysis considers the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate vicinity, factoring in their patient load and appointment scheduling practices. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with local hospital records and patient feedback, is used to assess the current PCP-to-population ratio. A concerningly low ratio would significantly detract from the overall 'Breast Cancer Score.'

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the PCPs' familiarity with breast cancer screening guidelines, their proactive approach to patient education, and their ability to effectively communicate risk factors and treatment options. The analysis considers factors like the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information sharing, the availability of in-office screening services (e.g., mammogram referrals), and the PCPs' demonstrated commitment to continuing medical education in breast cancer detection and management. Practices that actively promote preventative care and early detection will be weighted favorably.

The presence of specialized care is crucial. While Autryville itself may not have a dedicated oncology center, the proximity to specialized breast cancer care facilities, such as those in Fayetteville or Raleigh, is a significant consideration. This includes assessing the travel time to these facilities, the availability of oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists, and the overall quality of care provided. The analysis examines the accreditation status of these facilities, their patient satisfaction ratings, and their participation in clinical trials. The closer and more accessible these specialized resources are, the higher the 'Breast Cancer Score.'

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs and specialists in the Autryville area is a key factor in this assessment. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialists located further away. Practices that offer telemedicine options can improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and potentially improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The analysis investigates the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use of the platforms, and the level of patient satisfaction with these virtual interactions.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the 'Breast Cancer Score.' This includes assessing the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology-related mental health issues. The analysis examines the proximity of these resources, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, appointment availability). Practices and facilities that integrate mental health support into their breast cancer care programs will receive higher scores.

The analysis also considers any standout practices within the 28318 ZIP code or its surrounding areas. This involves identifying practices that demonstrate exceptional commitment to breast cancer care, as evidenced by their patient outcomes, innovative approaches to care delivery, and community outreach efforts. This might include practices that offer comprehensive screening programs, participate in clinical trials, or have dedicated breast cancer navigators to guide patients through the complexities of treatment. These standout practices serve as models for other healthcare providers and contribute significantly to the overall quality of care in the region.

Data collection is crucial. This assessment relies on a multi-faceted approach. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board, the American Medical Association, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are used. Patient reviews from platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals are considered, along with information gathered from local hospitals, clinics, and physician practices. The analysis also incorporates data from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to assess cancer incidence rates and mortality statistics in the region.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. It is designed to be a starting point for further investigation and to encourage continuous improvement in breast cancer care within the Autryville area. The goal is to provide residents with a clear understanding of the resources available to them and to empower them to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' will be a composite rating reflecting the factors discussed above. The score will be accompanied by a detailed report summarizing the findings and highlighting areas of strength and weakness within the local healthcare system. This report will be designed to be easily understood by the general public and will provide actionable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of PCPs, specialists, and support services, and to understand travel times and accessibility, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a visual representation of the data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Autryville and the surrounding areas.