28405, Wilmington, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28405, Wilmington, North Carolina is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.12 percent of the residents in 28405 has some form of health insurance. 35.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.99 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 28405 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,971 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28405. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,723 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,508 health care providers accessible to residents in 28405, Wilmington, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28405)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape in Wilmington, North Carolina, specifically within the 28405 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will explore the availability and quality of care, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, prominent practices, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive breast cancer treatment and support system.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These physicians act as the first point of contact, guiding patients through screenings, referrals, and ongoing health management. Examining the PCP-to-patient ratio within the 28405 ZIP code is essential. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care, which is a significant advantage in early detection and proactive health management. The analysis will consider the overall number of PCPs practicing within the area, factoring in their specialties and whether they are accepting new patients. Publicly available data, such as information from the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with insurance provider directories, can provide a reasonable estimate of these ratios.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and reputation of primary care practices are equally important. Some practices may have a stronger focus on preventative care, including mammogram referrals and patient education, while others may have a more general approach. Identifying standout practices within the 28405 area requires evaluating their patient reviews, their commitment to preventative care, and their integration of technology for patient communication and appointment scheduling. Practices that proactively engage with their patients, sending reminders for screenings and providing educational materials, are likely to contribute to earlier detection and better patient outcomes.

Once a patient receives a concerning mammogram result, the next crucial step is access to specialized breast cancer care. This includes access to oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists. The 28405 ZIP code likely benefits from its proximity to larger medical centers and hospitals within the Wilmington area. These facilities typically house multidisciplinary teams capable of providing comprehensive breast cancer treatment. The analysis will identify the major hospitals and cancer centers serving the area, evaluating their accreditation, the range of services offered (e.g., surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy), and the availability of clinical trials.

The physician-to-patient ratio for specialists will be assessed, although this is often a more complex calculation due to the specialized nature of their practices and the regional draw of larger medical centers. The analysis will consider the number of oncologists and surgeons practicing within the 28405 area, factoring in their experience and the specific types of breast cancer they treat.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption within the 28405 area can significantly impact access to care. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and mental health support. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local practices and hospitals utilize telemedicine platforms. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the technology infrastructure in place to support telemedicine. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and potentially improve patient adherence to treatment plans.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be profound. Access to mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the 28405 area. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, their specialties (e.g., oncology-specific therapy), and their acceptance of insurance. The analysis will also consider the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, for breast cancer patients and their families. Access to mental health support can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of their diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The quality of breast cancer care extends beyond the medical aspects. Patient education and support services are critical for empowering patients and improving their overall well-being. The analysis will assess the availability of patient education materials, such as brochures, websites, and support groups, within the 28405 area. These resources can provide patients with information about their diagnosis, treatment options, and survivorship care. Practices and hospitals that prioritize patient education are likely to foster a more informed and engaged patient population.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of resources for financial assistance, such as grants and programs that help patients with the costs of treatment. The financial burden of breast cancer can be significant, and access to financial support can alleviate some of the stress and anxiety associated with the disease.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Wilmington, NC, 28405, requires a thorough examination of multiple factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all play a crucial role. A well-developed care system will prioritize early detection, comprehensive treatment, and robust patient support.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington, NC, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare providers and resources, we encourage you to visit CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of breast cancer care within the 28405 ZIP code and beyond.