28320, Bladenboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28320, Bladenboro, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.98 percent of the residents in 28320 has some form of health insurance. 42.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.73 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 28320 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,985 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28320. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,121 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,334 health care providers accessible to residents in 28320, Bladenboro, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28320 and Primary Care Availability in Bladenboro

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 28320, encompassing Bladenboro, North Carolina, to assess the availability and quality of primary care and related resources. The “Breast Cancer Score” is a conceptual framework, evaluating various factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. It considers physician density, access to specialized care, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support, all within the context of a rural community.

The foundation of a strong Breast Cancer Score lies in robust primary care. In Bladenboro, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline understanding. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and other relevant sources would be required to accurately calculate this ratio. Beyond the numbers, evaluating the types of primary care practices present is essential. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer greater resources and potentially better coordination of care.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is key. This involves looking at factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the integration of preventive care. Practices that actively promote breast cancer screenings, offer patient education, and have a history of early detection are highly valued. Furthermore, understanding the practice’s approach to follow-up care and referrals to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, is vital. Practices that streamline this process, ensuring patients receive timely and appropriate care, contribute significantly to a positive Breast Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some diagnostic services remotely. The extent of telemedicine integration among primary care practices in 28320 directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms to facilitate screenings, provide educational materials, and connect patients with specialists are highly advantageous. This is particularly important for those with limited mobility or transportation options.

The early detection of breast cancer often involves mammograms. The availability of mammography services within or near Bladenboro is crucial. This includes access to modern equipment, qualified technicians, and timely results reporting. Proximity to accredited imaging centers and the ability of primary care physicians to order and coordinate these screenings are essential components of a strong Breast Cancer Score. Furthermore, understanding the screening protocols in place – for example, whether practices adhere to recommended guidelines for age and frequency – is important.

Mental health resources play a significant role in overall well-being, especially for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The Breast Cancer Score must consider the availability of mental health support within the community. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Primary care practices that screen for mental health concerns and offer referrals to appropriate resources contribute significantly to a more holistic approach to patient care. The integration of mental health services within the broader healthcare system, creating a seamless network of support, is highly desirable.

The socio-economic factors within Bladenboro also influence the Breast Cancer Score. Factors such as insurance coverage, access to transportation, and health literacy impact a patient's ability to access and adhere to medical recommendations. Understanding the demographics of the community and the challenges faced by residents is crucial for a comprehensive assessment. Addressing these social determinants of health is vital for improving health outcomes and ensuring equitable access to care.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that changes over time. Regular monitoring of key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and access to mental health resources, is essential. This requires ongoing data collection and analysis, as well as collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. The goal is to continuously improve the quality of care and ensure that all residents of Bladenboro have access to the resources they need to fight breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Score should also assess the availability of patient navigation services. Navigators can assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. Practices that offer or partner with patient navigation programs significantly enhance the patient experience and improve outcomes. This is particularly important for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, as they often require assistance in managing their care.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score for 28320 reflects the collective efforts of the healthcare community to provide comprehensive and accessible breast cancer care. By evaluating the factors discussed above, a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system can be developed. This, in turn, can inform strategies for improvement, such as increasing physician recruitment, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and enhancing mental health support.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bladenboro and surrounding areas, explore the power of spatial analysis. **Discover how CartoChrome maps can bring this data to life, providing a visual representation of physician distribution, access to services, and other critical factors. Use CartoChrome maps to see the Breast Cancer Score in action.**