28348, Hope Mills, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28348, Hope Mills, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.99 percent of the residents in 28348 has some form of health insurance. 36.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.44 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 28348 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,835 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28348. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,857 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,564 health care providers accessible to residents in 28348, Hope Mills, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Hope Mills, NC (ZIP Code 28348)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and quality for residents of Hope Mills, North Carolina (ZIP code 28348). It evaluates the landscape of primary care physicians, specialists, and available resources, culminating in a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within this specific geographical area. The goal is to inform residents about their healthcare options and empower them to make informed decisions regarding their breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on strong primary care. In Hope Mills, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to care. Assessing the current PCP-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 28348 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, when combined, allows for a preliminary calculation. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that this is a snapshot in time, as physician availability fluctuates.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is also crucial. Practices that emphasize preventive care, including regular breast cancer screenings (mammograms), are highly valued. Patient reviews, available through online platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer insights into patient experiences, including the responsiveness of physicians, the thoroughness of examinations, and the overall quality of care. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback and demonstrate a commitment to patient education and proactive screening practices should be considered standout performers.

The availability of specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, is another key determinant of breast cancer care quality. While Hope Mills may not have a large concentration of these specialists, proximity to larger medical centers in nearby Fayetteville, such as Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, becomes significant. The ease of access to these facilities, including travel time and transportation options, directly impacts the patient experience. A shorter travel time can ease the burden on patients, particularly those undergoing treatment.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, and its adoption in Hope Mills is a critical factor. Telemedicine platforms can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, especially for patients who may have difficulty traveling. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer greater convenience and can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and specialists in the area is essential.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health resources is vital for patients. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, either directly or through referrals to qualified therapists and counselors, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Evaluating the availability of these resources, including the presence of on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, is a key aspect of this analysis.

In addition to physician availability and resource access, the presence of support groups and patient advocacy organizations in the Hope Mills area is also a critical consideration. These groups provide valuable emotional support, information, and resources for patients and their families. They also serve as a platform for advocacy and awareness, contributing to a more informed and supportive community.

The overall quality of breast cancer care in Hope Mills is a complex interplay of various factors. While the exact physician-to-patient ratio needs to be calculated, the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and support groups all contribute to the overall score. Practices that excel in multiple areas, such as preventive screening, patient communication, and access to specialized care, will naturally receive higher rankings.

The assessment of specific practices involves more than just quantitative data. It includes qualitative elements like patient reviews, practice philosophy, and the integration of technology. The ability of a practice to provide a seamless and patient-centered experience is essential.

The analysis also extends beyond the immediate medical environment. Factors like socioeconomic status, insurance coverage, and access to transportation can significantly influence a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Understanding these broader social determinants of health is crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

Hope Mills residents should be aware of the resources available to them. They should actively seek information about their healthcare options, including the physicians and specialists in their area. They should also be prepared to advocate for their own health needs and to ask questions about their care.

The assessment of breast cancer care in Hope Mills is an ongoing process. As healthcare evolves, so too must the evaluation of its quality and accessibility. Regular updates and analyses are necessary to ensure that residents have the most current and accurate information available.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hope Mills and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and resource proximity, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.