28403, Wilmington, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.41 percent of the residents in 28403 has some form of health insurance. 24.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.55 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 28403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,239 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28403. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,082 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,878 health care providers accessible to residents in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28403)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28403, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This assessment aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment in Wilmington, North Carolina.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and robust primary care. In Wilmington (28403), assessing the availability of primary care physicians is crucial. This includes not only the sheer number of physicians but also their capacity to accept new patients and the breadth of services they offer. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking routine screenings. Their ability to provide timely referrals to specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, is paramount. Furthermore, the responsiveness of primary care practices to patient inquiries and appointment requests significantly impacts the overall patient experience.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio specifically for primary care physicians within 28403 reveals potential bottlenecks in access. Areas with a higher patient load per physician may experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Understanding this ratio allows for a more informed assessment of the healthcare resources available to the community.

Several practices in Wilmington (28403) have distinguished themselves in breast cancer care. These standout practices are often characterized by their commitment to patient-centered care, advanced technologies, and comprehensive services. They may offer state-of-the-art imaging equipment, such as 3D mammography, and employ highly skilled radiologists specializing in breast health. Furthermore, these practices often integrate multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, oncologists, and nurses, to provide holistic care. They may also participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine in breast cancer care within 28403 is a crucial factor to consider. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions, particularly for patients who live in geographically isolated areas or have mobility challenges. Examining the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms, and the types of services offered remotely, provides insight into the accessibility and convenience of care.

Mental health support is an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within 28403 is critical. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This can involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with support organizations. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources is essential for evaluating the overall quality of breast cancer care.

The integration of these factors – primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – provides a multi-faceted view of the breast cancer care landscape in Wilmington (28403). A high-quality score would reflect robust primary care access, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of advanced practices, widespread telemedicine utilization, and readily available mental health support. Conversely, a lower score would indicate potential challenges in these areas, highlighting the need for improvements in healthcare access and quality.

Analyzing the specific practices within 28403, one might find that the New Hanover Regional Medical Center system, for example, offers a comprehensive breast cancer program with a dedicated breast health center. This center likely provides a range of services, including screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical consultations, and chemotherapy. The system’s commitment to advanced technology and its multidisciplinary approach would contribute positively to its score. However, the overall score would also depend on the availability of primary care physicians in the area, the adoption of telemedicine by smaller practices, and the integration of mental health services throughout the community.

The availability of mental health resources is particularly important. Cancer patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. Practices that offer on-site therapists, or that have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, would receive higher marks. The presence of support groups, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or local cancer support organizations, would also be a positive indicator.

The implementation of telemedicine is another key factor. Practices that offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments or for patients who live in rural areas, would be recognized for their commitment to patient convenience and access. The use of telemedicine can also improve communication between patients and their healthcare providers, leading to better outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of access. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally indicates better access to care. Areas with a higher patient load per physician may experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. This ratio is a critical factor in determining the overall score.

Finally, the overall score for breast cancer care in Wilmington (28403) is a dynamic measure. It is affected by changes in healthcare policies, the availability of funding for cancer research and treatment, and the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve patient care. The score is not a static number but rather a reflection of the current state of healthcare in the area.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington (28403), including the locations of primary care physicians, specialist practices, and support services, we encourage you to explore interactive maps.

**Discover the healthcare landscape of Wilmington, NC (28403) with CartoChrome maps. Visualize physician locations, service availability, and more. Visit CartoChrome today to gain valuable insights into your local healthcare options.**