28443, Hampstead, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28443, Hampstead, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.80 percent of the residents in 28443 has some form of health insurance. 30.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.26 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 28443 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,355 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28443. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,323 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,476 health care providers accessible to residents in 28443, Hampstead, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Hampstead, NC (ZIP Code 28443)

Analyzing the breast cancer landscape within Hampstead, North Carolina (ZIP code 28443) necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial entry point for early detection and preventative care, alongside the broader healthcare ecosystem's capacity to address breast cancer concerns. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all contributing to a "Breast Cancer Score" for the area.

Hampstead, a rapidly growing community, faces the typical challenges of balancing population growth with healthcare infrastructure development. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall ratio in Pender County, where Hampstead is located, likely reflects a moderate level of access, potentially strained by the influx of new residents. This means that while the area might not be critically underserved, residents may experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and consultations. Further research into the specific ratio for primary care physicians and specialists within the 28443 ZIP code is essential to establish a baseline score.

Primary care availability is the bedrock of effective breast cancer management. Regular check-ups, including breast exams and referrals for mammograms, are vital for early detection. The presence of a robust network of primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants is therefore paramount. The quality of these providers, measured by patient satisfaction, adherence to screening guidelines, and the availability of comprehensive care, is equally important. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer patient education, and actively track screening rates will naturally receive higher scores.

Standout practices within the 28443 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This includes practices that offer:

* **Comprehensive Screening Programs:** Utilizing state-of-the-art mammography technology and adhering to the latest screening guidelines.
* **Patient-Centered Care:** Creating a welcoming environment, providing clear communication, and addressing patient concerns with empathy.
* **Care Coordination:** Facilitating seamless referrals to specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists.
* **Community Outreach:** Engaging in educational initiatives and promoting breast cancer awareness within the community.

Identifying these practices requires a thorough review of patient reviews, practice websites, and professional recommendations. Practices actively involved in community health initiatives would also receive higher scores, as they demonstrate a commitment to proactive patient care.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in improving access to care, particularly for residents who may face geographical barriers or have limited mobility. The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care visits, follow-up appointments, and specialist consultations can significantly improve convenience. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will be viewed favorably. This is especially true for follow-up appointments after initial screenings or for discussing test results, which can often be handled remotely.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for patients navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The emotional toll of a diagnosis, the side effects of treatment, and the fear of recurrence can be overwhelming. The availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services within the 28443 ZIP code is an essential component of the "Breast Cancer Score." Practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns and offer referrals to qualified therapists or support groups will be considered highly supportive of their patients.

To calculate a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for Hampstead, NC (28443), we must weigh these factors. The score should reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care available in the area. This includes:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio (20%):** Reflecting the availability of primary care physicians and specialists.
* **Primary Care Quality (30%):** Assessing the quality of primary care practices, including screening practices, patient satisfaction, and adherence to guidelines.
* **Standout Practices (20%):** Recognizing practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care.
* **Telemedicine Adoption (15%):** Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services.
* **Mental Health Resources (15%):** Assessing the availability of mental health support.

The final score would be a composite, providing a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape for breast cancer patients in Hampstead. This score can be used to identify areas for improvement and to highlight the strengths of the local healthcare system.

This analysis emphasizes the need for data-driven insights to understand the healthcare landscape in Hampstead. The "Breast Cancer Score" is a starting point, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents have access to high-quality, comprehensive breast cancer care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other critical factors impacting breast cancer care in Hampstead and beyond, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more nuanced and comprehensive analysis.