28460, Sneads Ferry, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28460, Sneads Ferry, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.52 percent of the residents in 28460 has some form of health insurance. 26.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.32 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 28460 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,568 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28460. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,515 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 702 health care providers accessible to residents in 28460, Sneads Ferry, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sneads Ferry, NC (ZIP Code 28460)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, in Sneads Ferry, NC (ZIP Code 28460) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in a patient's journey through breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This comprehensive assessment aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients. In Sneads Ferry, assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, considering factors such as the population size. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This scarcity can lead to delays in screenings, diagnostic tests, and referrals to specialists, ultimately impacting patient outcomes. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and publicly available healthcare directories are essential for establishing these ratios.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and accessibility of these primary care practices need evaluation. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they actively promote breast cancer screening guidelines, such as mammograms, and provide patient education materials? Practices that proactively integrate these elements into their care models are likely to contribute positively to the overall "Breast Cancer Score." The presence of female physicians, who may be preferred by some patients for breast health concerns, is another factor to consider.

Identifying "standout practices" involves recognizing healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in various aspects of care. This includes practices that consistently achieve high patient satisfaction scores, offer comprehensive screening programs, and demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine. These practices often have a strong focus on patient education, providing resources and support to help patients understand their risk factors, screening options, and treatment pathways. They may also collaborate with local hospitals and specialists to ensure seamless care coordination. This assessment requires analyzing patient reviews, examining practice websites, and potentially contacting practices directly to gather information.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Sneads Ferry. Its adoption can significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score" by facilitating virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve appointment flexibility, and provide access to specialists who may not be physically located in the area. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing the availability of virtual consultation options, the types of services offered remotely, and the ease of use of the technology. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to enhance the accessibility and convenience of care for patients.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive care. The "Breast Cancer Score" must reflect the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in supporting patients through the emotional challenges of cancer. This includes assessing the presence of mental health providers within the community, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns and offer referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Sneads Ferry, NC (ZIP Code 28460) is a complex metric that reflects the interplay of various factors. While a precise numerical score requires detailed data analysis, the preliminary assessment highlights the importance of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Addressing any identified deficiencies in these areas is crucial for improving the overall quality of breast cancer care in the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sneads Ferry and visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, resources, and patient demographics, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can provide a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful understanding of the healthcare environment.