28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.37 percent of the residents in 28431 has some form of health insurance. 49.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.67 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 28431 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28431. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,098 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,255 health care providers accessible to residents in 28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina.

The analysis of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP code 28431, encompassing Chadbourn, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This evaluation considers the availability of primary care physicians, a crucial gateway to early detection and referral, alongside the broader landscape of breast cancer services. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources – all essential components of a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the current situation and highlight areas for potential improvement.

Chadbourn, a relatively small town, presents unique challenges and opportunities. The availability of primary care physicians forms the foundation of any effective breast cancer screening and treatment program. A low physician-to-patient ratio can create barriers to timely appointments, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a robust primary care network, easily accessible to the community, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio involves analyzing the number of primary care physicians practicing within the 28431 ZIP code and comparing it to the population size. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can provide this information. The ideal ratio varies, but a higher ratio generally indicates better access. A shortage of primary care physicians necessitates longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the crucial early stages of breast cancer detection, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care offered. This includes assessing factors such as the availability of comprehensive screening services, the use of evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, and the patient-centered approach of the providers. Practices that actively participate in breast cancer screening programs, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and maintain strong relationships with local specialists are likely to be highly regarded. Reviews and patient feedback, though subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of modern healthcare. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and discussions of test results, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Telemedicine can reduce travel time and costs, making it easier for patients to receive the care they need. The level of telemedicine integration among practices in 28431 needs careful evaluation. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the technological infrastructure supporting these services.

Mental health resources play a vital role in the overall well-being of breast cancer patients. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups within the community is a key factor. Assessing the presence of these resources requires identifying mental health providers in the area and evaluating their expertise in oncology-related mental health issues. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is essential for providing comprehensive care.

Chadbourn's size and location present unique challenges. The community may face limitations in specialist availability, requiring patients to travel to larger cities for advanced care. This underscores the importance of strong referral networks and the need for practices to maintain close relationships with specialists in nearby areas. The ability of primary care physicians to effectively navigate the healthcare system on behalf of their patients becomes particularly critical.

Breast cancer care is not just about medical treatment; it's about providing holistic support. This includes addressing the social determinants of health, such as access to transportation, financial assistance, and social support networks. Practices that actively address these issues demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care.

The evaluation of breast cancer care in 28431 should also consider the demographic characteristics of the population. Factors such as age, race, and socioeconomic status can influence access to care and health outcomes. Addressing health disparities requires a nuanced understanding of the community's specific needs and the development of targeted interventions.

A comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care in Chadbourn must also consider the role of community organizations and advocacy groups. These groups often provide valuable resources, support, and education to patients and their families. Their involvement can significantly improve the quality of care and the patient experience. The presence of these organizations and their level of engagement within the community are important indicators of a supportive healthcare environment.

The availability of breast cancer screening facilities, such as mammography centers, is a critical factor. The proximity of these facilities and their hours of operation directly impact access to screening. The quality of the equipment and the expertise of the technicians also play a role in the accuracy of the screenings.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important consideration. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between providers, improving coordination of care and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices that have adopted EHRs and utilize them effectively are better positioned to provide high-quality care.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in Chadbourn, NC (28431) requires a detailed analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall support system available to patients. The goal is to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, ultimately leading to better outcomes for those affected by breast cancer.

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