28379, Rockingham, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28379, Rockingham, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.98 percent of the residents in 28379 has some form of health insurance. 51.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.75 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 28379 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,451 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28379. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,503 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 670 health care providers accessible to residents in 28379, Rockingham, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28379 & Primary Care in Rockingham**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28379 (likely encompassing the Rockingham, NC area) and the broader primary care landscape in Rockingham, NC, aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score considers factors crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview to empower patients with information and guide healthcare improvements.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. In Rockingham, evaluating primary care availability is paramount. This includes examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed appointments, impacting early detection and timely referrals. Researching the number of PCPs actively practicing within Rockingham, alongside the population of the area, provides a baseline for understanding access. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential for this calculation.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is critical. Does the primary care infrastructure include practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings like mammograms? Do these practices have established referral pathways to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons? This involves investigating the protocols and practices of local clinics and hospitals, focusing on their commitment to early detection and patient education.

Within ZIP code 28379, the presence of specialized breast cancer care providers is a significant indicator of quality. This includes oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast health, and radiologists experienced in breast imaging. The availability of these specialists within or easily accessible to the area is a crucial factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Analyzing the number of these specialists, their training, and their affiliations with local hospitals or cancer centers provides valuable insight. Are there any standout practices that have developed reputations for excellence in breast cancer treatment? Identifying these practices, their patient outcomes, and their use of advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography or minimally invasive surgical techniques, can significantly elevate the Breast Cancer Score.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists in the Rockingham area can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who may have difficulty traveling for appointments. Assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and online patient portals is essential. Does the local healthcare system offer telehealth options for initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of treatment side effects? The Breast Cancer Score is positively influenced by the extent of telemedicine integration.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. Access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. This involves evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within Rockingham and the surrounding areas. Are there support groups specifically for breast cancer patients? Does the local healthcare system offer integrated mental health services, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals? The presence of these resources significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score.

Beyond the direct provision of medical care, the Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of patient education and support programs. Are there local organizations that offer educational materials, support groups, and financial assistance to breast cancer patients? Does the local hospital or cancer center offer patient navigation services to help patients navigate the complex healthcare system? These supportive services are crucial for empowering patients and improving their overall well-being.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a single number but a composite of these factors. It reflects the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care within the specified geographic area. A higher score indicates better access to care, a greater availability of specialists, a more robust integration of telemedicine, and a stronger emphasis on mental health and patient support. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding access to specialists, promoting telemedicine adoption, and enhancing mental health resources.

Analyzing the data requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes examining publicly available data from government agencies, healthcare organizations, and professional medical societies. It also involves conducting direct research, such as surveying local healthcare providers and interviewing patients. The goal is to gather a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and weakness.

The ultimate aim is to improve the quality of breast cancer care in Rockingham and surrounding areas. This analysis can serve as a starting point for identifying areas where resources are lacking. This information can be used to advocate for improvements in healthcare access, promote the adoption of best practices, and ensure that all patients have access to the care they need. This analysis is a dynamic process that requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the Breast Cancer Score should be updated regularly to reflect these changes.

For a visual representation of the data and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive tools for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, hospital affiliations, and other relevant information. This can help you to understand the healthcare landscape in Rockingham.