28411, Wilmington, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28411, Wilmington, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.04 percent of the residents in 28411 has some form of health insurance. 27.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.00 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 28411 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,637 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28411. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,615 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,977 health care providers accessible to residents in 28411, Wilmington, North Carolina.

The task is to analyze breast cancer care within Wilmington, North Carolina's 28411 ZIP code, focusing on primary care physician availability and the overall quality of care accessible to patients. This analysis will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer treatment journey.

The 28411 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Wilmington, presents a complex healthcare landscape. While the city boasts a growing population, the accessibility and quality of healthcare services, particularly for specialized needs like breast cancer care, can vary considerably. A critical starting point is assessing the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the area. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The availability of PCPs is the first step in a breast cancer journey.

The presence of standout practices is another key consideration. These practices often distinguish themselves through a combination of factors: advanced diagnostic technologies, experienced medical professionals, and a patient-centered approach. These practices may be affiliated with larger healthcare systems or operate independently. They may have a dedicated breast cancer center, offering comprehensive services from screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship support. Researching these practices, their accreditations, and patient reviews is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of on-site mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy services.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant in healthcare. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments or initial consultations, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited access to specialists. The 28411 area’s telemedicine adoption rates among primary care physicians and specialists specializing in breast cancer care should be examined. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital tools to facilitate communication between patients and their care teams.

Mental health resources are a vital, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience supporting cancer patients is paramount. This also includes support groups, educational programs, and access to palliative care services that address the emotional and psychological needs of patients and their families. The integration of mental health services into the breast cancer treatment pathway is a mark of a truly patient-centered approach.

Analyzing the specific primary care availability within the 28411 ZIP code requires a deep dive into local healthcare data. This involves examining the number of PCPs practicing within the area, their specialties, their patient load, and the types of insurance they accept. It also involves assessing the proximity of primary care clinics to residential areas and the availability of transportation options for patients. The availability of after-hours care, weekend appointments, and same-day appointments is also an important factor.

The overall quality of breast cancer care in the area is a multifaceted assessment. It involves evaluating the availability of early detection services, such as mammography and breast ultrasound, the expertise of radiologists and oncologists, the availability of advanced treatment options, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, and the provision of comprehensive supportive care services, such as physical therapy, nutritional counseling, and survivorship programs. The accreditation status of local hospitals and cancer centers, as well as their participation in clinical trials, is also a significant indicator of quality.

Standout practices often differentiate themselves through their commitment to patient education and empowerment. This includes providing patients with clear and concise information about their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects. They also encourage patient participation in decision-making and provide access to resources that help patients manage their health and well-being. This may include educational materials, support groups, and access to patient navigators who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

The integration of technology in breast cancer care is another important factor. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication between healthcare providers, the use of telehealth platforms to provide remote consultations and monitoring, and the use of digital tools to track patient progress and manage symptoms. The adoption of these technologies can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the patient experience.

The evaluation of mental health resources should include an assessment of the availability of mental health professionals who specialize in oncology, the availability of support groups and educational programs, and the integration of mental health services into the breast cancer treatment pathway. Access to palliative care services, which address the emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients and their families, is also critical.

In conclusion, the quality of breast cancer care within the 28411 ZIP code is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive assessment of multiple factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical components of a patient-centered approach. A thorough analysis of these factors is essential to ensure that patients have access to the best possible care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Wilmington and gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, clinic accessibility, and the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome.