28328, Clinton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28328, Clinton, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.35 percent of the residents in 28328 has some form of health insurance. 42.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.05 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 28328 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,412 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28328. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,319 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 481 health care providers accessible to residents in 28328, Clinton, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Clinton, NC (ZIP Code 28328)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Clinton, North Carolina (ZIP code 28328) necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. These factors collectively contribute to a "Breast Cancer Score," indirectly measuring the community’s preparedness for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of this significant health concern.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact, crucial for routine screenings, patient education, and timely referrals to specialists. Assessing primary care availability in Clinton requires examining the number of PCPs practicing within the specified ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide a general estimate of the number of PCPs. However, the actual number of actively practicing physicians and their patient load needs to be verified.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians for a large population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility to care. The ideal ratio varies depending on factors like age demographics, prevalence of chronic diseases, and socioeconomic factors. Comparing the physician-to-patient ratio in Clinton to state and national averages provides a benchmark for assessing the community's access to primary care.

Identifying standout practices is another crucial component. These practices may demonstrate excellence in various aspects of breast cancer care, such as early detection programs, patient education initiatives, or a commitment to utilizing evidence-based guidelines. Researching local healthcare providers and reviewing patient testimonials, if available, can help identify practices that prioritize preventative care and patient-centered treatment. Information on the practice's accreditation, participation in quality improvement programs, and the availability of on-site mammography services are all indicators of a practice’s commitment to breast cancer care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving the timeliness of consultations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in Clinton involves determining which primary care practices and specialists offer virtual appointments, and what types of services are available through telemedicine. This information can be obtained by contacting local medical practices or reviewing their websites.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for breast cancer patients. The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is crucial for supporting patients throughout their journey. Evaluating the availability of these resources in Clinton involves identifying mental health providers, support groups, and community organizations that offer services to cancer patients. This includes assessing the availability of licensed therapists, psychiatrists, and social workers who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Clinton is derived from these factors. It is a composite measure reflecting the community's capacity to support breast cancer patients. A high score indicates strong primary care access, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and comprehensive mental health resources. Conversely, a low score suggests potential challenges in accessing care, which may require community-based interventions to improve access and outcomes.

The evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and the identification of standout practices requires thorough research. Data collection from various sources, including medical boards, healthcare provider directories, and patient reviews, is essential. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves contacting local practices and assessing their technological capabilities. The availability of mental health resources requires identifying mental health providers and support groups within the community.

The analysis is not a static assessment. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the availability of mental health services. This ongoing monitoring ensures that the "Breast Cancer Score" remains a relevant and reliable indicator of the community’s capacity to support breast cancer patients.

The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available in Clinton, NC, and to identify areas where improvements can be made. This analysis is intended to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members about the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This will allow them to make informed decisions about resource allocation, program development, and patient care.

This analysis is intended to provide a general overview and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individuals seeking medical care should consult with qualified healthcare professionals.

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