28401, Wilmington, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28401, Wilmington, North Carolina is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.39 percent of the residents in 28401 has some form of health insurance. 44.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.42 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 28401 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,217 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28401. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,583 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,819 health care providers accessible to residents in 28401, Wilmington, North Carolina.

Breast cancer is a formidable adversary, and access to quality care is paramount in the fight against it. This analysis dives into the landscape of breast cancer care within the 28401 ZIP code, focusing on Wilmington, North Carolina, and its primary care infrastructure. We'll assess the availability and quality of care, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of crucial mental health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, less personalized care, and increased stress on the healthcare system. Determining the precise ratio within 28401 necessitates accessing local and national databases, including the American Medical Association (AMA) and state medical boards. However, a general understanding of the region's healthcare infrastructure is crucial. Wilmington, as a coastal city with a growing population, faces the same challenges as many communities. The demands on primary care physicians are likely to be high, potentially affecting timely access to breast cancer screenings and initial consultations.

Identifying standout practices is critical. These are the clinics and hospitals that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care, often through a combination of factors. These factors include a multidisciplinary approach, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists working collaboratively. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) for breast centers is a significant indicator of quality. Practices with a strong track record of early detection, advanced treatment options, and patient support services deserve recognition. These practices often invest in cutting-edge technology, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and minimally invasive biopsy techniques. Furthermore, their commitment to patient education and support groups can significantly improve the patient experience.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, and its adoption in breast cancer care is particularly relevant. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in remote areas or with mobility limitations to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even support groups. The availability of virtual consultations for discussing screening results, treatment options, and side effects can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden on the healthcare system. Assessing the telemedicine adoption rate within 28401 requires evaluating the practices' websites, patient portals, and publicly available information. Practices that actively promote and utilize telemedicine options are likely to offer greater accessibility to care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology, is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, provide a valuable platform for patients to connect with others who understand their experiences.

Primary care availability is inextricably linked to breast cancer care. Primary care physicians play a vital role in early detection through regular screenings and referrals to specialists. The accessibility of primary care physicians within 28401 directly impacts the timely diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Factors such as the number of primary care physicians, their office hours, the acceptance of insurance plans, and the availability of same-day appointments all contribute to primary care access. Areas with a shortage of primary care physicians may experience delays in screening and diagnosis, potentially leading to poorer outcomes.

Assessing the breast cancer care landscape in 28401 requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. The overall quality of care is ultimately determined by the integration of these factors. Practices that prioritize early detection, offer comprehensive treatment options, provide robust patient support, and embrace technology are likely to deliver superior care.

The identification of standout practices requires a more in-depth investigation. This includes reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing practice websites, and potentially conducting interviews with healthcare professionals. Key indicators include the presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, the availability of advanced imaging and treatment technologies, the integration of a multidisciplinary team, and a commitment to patient education and support. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research demonstrate a commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.

Telemedicine's impact is significant. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer greater convenience and accessibility, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. The availability of virtual consultations for discussing screening results, treatment options, and side effects can significantly improve the patient experience. The ease of access to these services is a crucial factor in evaluating the overall quality of care.

Mental health resources are essential. The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Practices that recognize this and integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes providing access to therapists, counselors, and support groups.

Primary care availability is crucial. The availability of primary care physicians within 28401 directly impacts the timely diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Areas with a shortage of primary care physicians may experience delays in screening and diagnosis, potentially leading to poorer outcomes.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in Wilmington, NC, within the 28401 ZIP code, and to visualize the data discussed, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions, allowing you to visualize healthcare data, identify areas with high or low access to care, and compare different practices.