28394, Vass, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28394, Vass, North Carolina is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.45 percent of the residents in 28394 has some form of health insurance. 40.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.80 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 28394 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,246 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28394. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,031 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,707 health care providers accessible to residents in 28394, Vass, North Carolina.

Breast cancer care access and quality vary considerably, even within relatively small geographic areas. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 28394, encompassing Vass, North Carolina, and evaluates the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their impact on breast cancer screening and support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, offering insights to empower residents in their healthcare journey.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact, guiding patients through screening recommendations, risk assessments, and referrals to specialists. In Vass, assessing primary care availability requires examining the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the number of patients each PCP is responsible for, impacting appointment wait times and the overall capacity of the system. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources, potentially delaying preventative care and impacting the timely detection of breast cancer.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This involves evaluating the practices themselves, assessing their commitment to preventative care, and their integration of best practices. Standout practices will actively promote breast cancer screening, utilizing tools like mammogram reminders and patient education materials. They will also demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, fostering strong doctor-patient relationships that encourage open communication and trust. This is particularly important in breast cancer care, where early detection and ongoing support are critical.

Telemedicine is another important factor. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Vass can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of health conditions. For breast cancer patients, this can translate to easier access to post-treatment check-ups, mental health support, and educational resources. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery, potentially improving patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling and therapy, is crucial for patients navigating their diagnosis and treatment. Primary care practices that actively screen for mental health concerns and provide referrals to qualified mental health professionals are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care. This integrated approach can significantly improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients.

The evaluation of specific practices within ZIP code 28394 requires in-depth research. This would involve examining practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially conducting interviews with local healthcare providers. Key indicators would include the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information sharing, and the presence of dedicated patient navigators who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Practices that excel in these areas are likely to provide a higher level of care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Vass needs to be compared to both state and national averages. A significantly higher ratio could indicate a shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a more favorable environment for patients, with potentially easier access to care and more time for physicians to spend with each patient. This comparative analysis is essential for understanding the relative strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The assessment of primary care practices must also consider their referral patterns. Are they connected to reputable specialists and cancer centers? Do they have established relationships with radiologists for mammogram screenings? Strong referral networks ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care, from initial screening to diagnosis and treatment. Practices with robust referral systems are better positioned to provide comprehensive breast cancer care.

The integration of technology, beyond telemedicine, also plays a role. Practices utilizing patient portals for secure communication, appointment scheduling, and access to medical records are demonstrating a commitment to patient empowerment. These technologies can streamline communication, improve patient engagement, and ultimately, enhance the overall patient experience.

Furthermore, the analysis should explore the availability of community resources. Are there support groups for breast cancer patients? Are there organizations that provide financial assistance or transportation services? The presence of these resources can significantly ease the burden on patients and their families. Primary care practices that are aware of and actively promote these resources are contributing to a more supportive healthcare environment.

The evaluation of mental health support should go beyond the availability of referrals. Are there mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients? This specialized expertise can be invaluable in addressing the unique emotional challenges faced by breast cancer patients. Practices that prioritize access to specialized mental health care are demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive patient well-being.

Ultimately, a comprehensive analysis would synthesize all these factors to provide a nuanced ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for the primary care landscape in ZIP code 28394. This score would reflect the availability of PCPs, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of community support. This score could then be used to inform residents about the healthcare options available to them.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Vass and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of healthcare resources, highlighting the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and support services. They can also incorporate data on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and other relevant factors, offering a comprehensive and easily accessible overview of the healthcare ecosystem.