28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.15 percent of the residents in 28357 has some form of health insurance. 51.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.75 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 28357 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 525 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28357. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 388 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,765 health care providers accessible to residents in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on breast cancer care within ZIP code 28357, encompassing Lumber Bridge, North Carolina, and evaluates primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, concluding with a call to action for CartoChrome maps.

Lumber Bridge, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. A comprehensive breast cancer care score requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the presence of specialists but also the broader healthcare ecosystem that supports early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Evaluating the quality of care necessitates a deeper dive than simply counting physicians.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental starting point. In ZIP code 28357, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a crucial indicator of access. Low ratios can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Analyzing the specific number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, and comparing this to the population size, provides a baseline. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential for this calculation. This ratio must then be compared to state and national averages to determine if Lumber Bridge faces a shortage or has adequate primary care physician coverage.

Beyond the raw numbers, the age and experience of the primary care physicians are important. Experienced physicians often have a deeper understanding of patient histories and can be more adept at recognizing subtle signs and symptoms of breast cancer. The availability of female physicians is another important consideration, as some patients prefer a female provider for sensitive examinations and discussions.

Standout practices in Lumber Bridge would demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and early detection. This includes offering comprehensive breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, and providing patient education about risk factors and self-exams. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promoting awareness and access to screenings, deserve high marks. Moreover, practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate care coordination and communication are crucial. EHRs allow for seamless sharing of patient information between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the breast cancer care score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Lumber Bridge to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and even support groups remotely. Practices that offer telemedicine services, particularly for follow-up appointments after a diagnosis or treatment, can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel. The availability of telehealth platforms that are user-friendly and accessible to patients with limited technological proficiency is a key indicator of successful telemedicine integration.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Practices that offer or provide referrals to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. The availability of these resources, particularly within the community, can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Further, the presence of social workers or patient navigators within primary care practices is beneficial. These professionals can assist patients with navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, including insurance coverage, financial assistance, and transportation to appointments. They can also provide emotional support and connect patients with community resources.

Evaluating the availability of specialized breast cancer care within a reasonable distance of Lumber Bridge is also necessary. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists is essential for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists, and the ease with which patients can access them, significantly impacts the breast cancer care score. The availability of specialized cancer centers, and the types of treatment options they offer, are also important considerations.

The quality of the hospitals and cancer centers serving the Lumber Bridge area is also important. Factors such as accreditation by reputable organizations, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of advanced treatment technologies are all indicators of quality. Hospitals with a dedicated breast cancer program, staffed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists, typically offer the highest level of care.

The overall breast cancer care score for Lumber Bridge and ZIP code 28357 is a complex calculation. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity and quality of specialized cancer care. It also accounts for the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and social workers. The score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape and the ongoing efforts to improve breast cancer care in the community.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lumber Bridge and the surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and cancer centers, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to analyze their distribution and accessibility. Explore the interactive maps to gain a deeper insight into the breast cancer care environment in Lumber Bridge and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.