28386, Shannon, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28386, Shannon, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.86 percent of the residents in 28386 has some form of health insurance. 45.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.47 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 28386 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,342 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28386. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 662 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,412 health care providers accessible to residents in 28386, Shannon, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28386 and Shannon, NC

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28386, encompassing the town of Shannon, North Carolina, with a specific focus on the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in early detection and ongoing management. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all vital components of a patient-centered approach.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. In Shannon, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio within 28386 serves as a key indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, facilitating timely interventions. This ratio, however, must be considered alongside other factors, such as the geographic distribution of physicians within the ZIP code, the availability of specialists, and the efficiency of appointment scheduling systems.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will assess practices based on their proactive approach to breast cancer screening. This includes adherence to national guidelines regarding mammography recommendations, the use of risk assessment tools, and the provision of patient education materials. Practices that actively engage patients in preventative care, promoting regular self-exams and discussing individual risk factors, will receive higher scores. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is essential. EHRs enable seamless communication between providers, facilitate efficient tracking of patient history, and ensure that crucial information regarding screenings and results is readily accessible.

Identifying standout practices within 28386 is crucial. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This could include practices that have implemented innovative screening programs, offer comprehensive patient support services, or have a proven track record of early detection. These practices often serve as models for others, promoting best practices and raising the overall standard of care within the community. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will highlight these exemplary practices, providing valuable insights for patients seeking the best possible care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Shannon. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices within 28386 is a significant factor in the 'Breast Cancer Score'. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing patients to discuss concerns, receive preliminary assessments, and even access specialist expertise without the need for extensive travel. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will be recognized for their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral component of comprehensive care. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will assess the availability of mental health services within 28386, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns, provide referrals to appropriate resources, and integrate mental health support into their care plans will receive higher scores. This holistic approach acknowledges the importance of addressing the emotional well-being of patients throughout their journey.

The Shannon community, like any other, faces unique challenges. Factors such as socioeconomic status, insurance coverage, and transportation limitations can significantly impact access to care. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will consider these factors, recognizing practices that actively work to overcome these barriers, providing financial assistance, offering transportation support, or partnering with community organizations to ensure that all patients have equal access to quality care. This commitment to health equity is a crucial element in achieving a high 'Breast Cancer Score'.

The evaluation process also considers the integration of specialists. While primary care forms the foundation, access to specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is essential for comprehensive breast cancer care. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will assess the proximity of specialist providers to Shannon, the ease of referral processes, and the level of collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists. Practices that have established strong referral networks and facilitate seamless communication between providers will be recognized for their commitment to coordinated care.

Moreover, patient satisfaction plays a critical role in the overall assessment. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will incorporate patient feedback, gathered through surveys and reviews, to gauge the quality of care from the patient's perspective. This includes assessing factors such as communication with providers, the clarity of explanations, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall experience of navigating the healthcare system. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from their patients will be recognized for their patient-centered approach.

In summary, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for physicians in ZIP code 28386 and primary care availability in Shannon will be a multifaceted assessment. It will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the proactive approach to screening, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the integration of specialists. The score will also account for patient feedback and the ability of practices to address community-specific challenges. The goal is to provide a comprehensive evaluation that empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care and to identify areas for improvement within the local healthcare system.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, specialist availability, and community resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize the healthcare landscape within 28386, enabling you to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your loved ones.