28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.33 percent of the residents in 28442 has some form of health insurance. 49.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.85 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 28442 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 223 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28442. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 372 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,249 health care providers accessible to residents in 28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are deeply personal and complex, demanding access to skilled medical professionals and comprehensive support systems. Evaluating the quality of care available within a specific geographic area, like ZIP code 28442 (Hallsboro, North Carolina), requires a nuanced understanding of various factors. This analysis aims to provide a 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and resource accessibility for individuals in this community.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors are often the first point of contact, providing crucial screenings, referrals, and ongoing management. In Hallsboro, assessing PCP availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access to care. Determining this ratio necessitates analyzing the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and comparing it to the local population. This data, ideally sourced from state medical boards and demographic surveys, would be crucial for a preliminary score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices in Hallsboro significantly impact the quality of care. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing with specialists? Furthermore, the integration of preventative services, such as mammogram scheduling and breast cancer risk assessments, within these practices is critical. Practices actively promoting these services would receive a higher score.

The availability of specialists, particularly oncologists and surgeons, is another key component. While Hallsboro may not have these specialists directly within its boundaries, the proximity to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Wilmington is vital. The distance to these centers, the ease of transportation, and the ability to secure timely appointments with specialists all contribute to the overall score. Analyzing the travel time to these specialists and the availability of transportation options for patients in Hallsboro is essential.

Telemedicine, or telehealth, is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in the region can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those facing mobility challenges or residing far from medical centers. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent travel and potentially expediting the diagnostic and treatment process. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine technologies would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved access.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within or near Hallsboro is a significant factor. Practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns and provide referrals to these resources would be highly valued. The presence of local support groups specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors would also contribute positively to the overall score.

Standout practices within the 28442 ZIP code or those serving its population deserve special recognition. These practices may excel in various areas, such as patient communication, personalized care plans, or innovative treatment approaches. Identifying these practices requires gathering patient reviews, assessing their commitment to patient education, and evaluating their integration of evidence-based practices. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care and positive outcomes would be highlighted as exemplary.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for Hallsboro would be a composite of these factors. Each element would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance, with physician-to-patient ratios, specialist access, and the availability of mental health resources likely carrying the most weight. The final score would provide a snapshot of the community's preparedness to support individuals navigating breast cancer.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Hallsboro, NC (ZIP code 28442) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the availability of physicians, the characteristics of primary care practices, the proximity to specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the support systems available to patients in this community.

To further explore the geographical distribution of these resources and visualize the data discussed, we encourage you to leverage the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and insightful view of the healthcare landscape in Hallsboro and surrounding areas. Utilize CartoChrome maps to understand the location of practices, specialist availability, and the accessibility of support services. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to make informed decisions about your healthcare journey.