28339, Erwin, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28339, Erwin, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.65 percent of the residents in 28339 has some form of health insurance. 47.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.82 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 28339 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,629 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28339. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,360 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 843 health care providers accessible to residents in 28339, Erwin, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Erwin, NC (ZIP Code 28339)**

This analysis examines the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within Erwin, North Carolina (ZIP code 28339), focusing on primary care physician accessibility and the overall support system for patients. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering various factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and holistic patient care. This score, though not a formal medical rating, aims to offer residents a practical understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Regular checkups and screenings are critical for early detection, significantly improving survival rates. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in Erwin is paramount. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau will be used to estimate this ratio, considering both general practitioners and internal medicine specialists.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are physicians actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, including oncologists and surgeons? Assessing these factors involves examining practice websites, patient reviews, and publicly available information about the services offered. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is crucial. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between primary care physicians and specialists, ensuring coordinated and efficient patient care.

Another important factor is the availability of specialists. The presence of oncologists, radiologists, and breast surgeons within a reasonable distance is essential. Travel time to these specialists impacts the patient experience and can influence treatment decisions. Analyzing the proximity of these specialists to Erwin, using mapping tools and public transportation data, will be part of the analysis. This assessment will also consider the availability of specialized services, such as genetic counseling and breast reconstruction options.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Erwin. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local primary care practices and specialists offer telemedicine services. This includes examining the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring) and the technology used.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health resources in Erwin, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. This includes assessing the number of mental health professionals, their specializations, and the accessibility of their services. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients is also a key consideration.

Standout practices within Erwin will be identified based on a combination of factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the range of services offered, patient reviews, and the adoption of technology like EHRs and telemedicine. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, including proactive screening programs and readily available support resources, will be highlighted. Specific examples of best practices, if identifiable, will be included to illustrate exemplary care models.

The analysis will also explore the availability of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can add to the stress of the illness. The assessment will identify any local or regional programs that offer financial aid, such as grants or assistance with medication costs. Information on navigating insurance coverage and accessing financial support will be incorporated.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care provided. The score will be presented in a clear and understandable format, providing residents with a practical overview of the healthcare landscape.

This analysis is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is intended to provide information and facilitate informed decision-making. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers for personalized recommendations and treatment plans.

The goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in Erwin, NC. By considering various factors, including physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and financial assistance programs, the analysis aims to offer residents a valuable resource for navigating the healthcare system. The "Breast Cancer Score" will provide a snapshot of the local healthcare environment, highlighting areas of strength and identifying areas for improvement.

This comprehensive assessment will be used to generate a map-based visualization using CartoChrome maps. This visualization will allow residents to interact with the data, explore the locations of healthcare providers, and gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape.