28461, Southport, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28461, Southport, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.85 percent of the residents in 28461 has some form of health insurance. 49.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.61 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 28461 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,740 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28461. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,731 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,725 health care providers accessible to residents in 28461, Southport, North Carolina.

The analysis below provides a hypothetical 'Breast Cancer Score' ranking for primary care physicians in Southport, North Carolina (ZIP code 28461), considering factors relevant to breast cancer care and patient access. This is a simulated assessment, and actual scores would require extensive data collection and verification. The focus is on the availability of resources, not the quality of care, which would necessitate patient reviews and clinical outcome data.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' framework considers several key areas: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Each area is weighted to reflect its importance in the overall patient experience.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access**

A critical component of the score is the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. In Southport, the score would initially depend on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 28461 ZIP code and the estimated population served. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with local census information, would be essential.

The analysis would also consider the availability of specialists. While the primary focus is on primary care, the proximity and ease of access to oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer are crucial. The presence of a nearby comprehensive cancer center, or affiliations with hospitals offering such services, would significantly boost the score. The distance to these specialists, and the ease of scheduling appointments, are factored in.

Further, the score would assess the acceptance of various insurance plans by local PCPs. A wide acceptance of insurance, including Medicare, Medicaid, and various private insurance plans, ensures broader access for all residents. A practice that accepts a wide array of insurance plans would receive a higher score in this category.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Certain practices might distinguish themselves through their focus on preventative care, early detection, and patient education. Practices with a dedicated women's health component, offering services like mammogram screenings on-site or within close proximity, would score higher. The availability of certified breast health navigators, who guide patients through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, is also a significant positive factor.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important consideration. Practices with robust EHR systems that facilitate seamless communication with specialists, allow for easy access to patient records, and offer patient portals for appointment scheduling and communication would receive higher marks. The ability to share medical records efficiently is critical for coordinated care.

The presence of multilingual staff or services is also considered. Southport, being a coastal community, may have a diverse population. Practices that cater to non-English speakers, offering translation services or multilingual materials, would demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and patient-centered care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Patient Convenience**

Telemedicine adoption is a key factor in the modern healthcare landscape. Practices offering telehealth consultations for routine check-ups, medication management, or follow-up appointments would receive a higher score. This is especially important for patients who may have mobility issues or live far from a doctor's office.

The availability of online appointment scheduling and the use of patient portals for communication are also assessed. These features enhance patient convenience and improve access to care. Practices that embrace technology to streamline the patient experience would be rewarded in the scoring.

The availability of after-hours care or weekend appointments would also be considered. Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be stressful, and having access to care outside of standard business hours can be a significant benefit for patients.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an important component of the 'Breast Cancer Score.' The analysis would assess the proximity to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists.

Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers would receive a higher score. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also a positive factor. These groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences and receive emotional support.

The analysis would also consider the availability of resources related to financial assistance and support. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and access to financial counseling and assistance programs can ease the burden on patients.

**Overall Score and Ranking Methodology**

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is calculated by assigning weights to each of the above categories. Physician-to-patient ratios and specialist access might be weighted most heavily, reflecting their fundamental importance. Telemedicine adoption and mental health resources would also be given significant weight.

The individual scores within each category are aggregated to create an overall score for each practice or physician. The practices are then ranked based on their scores, providing a relative assessment of their suitability for breast cancer patients. This ranking is dynamic, changing as practices adopt new technologies, improve their services, or as the availability of specialists changes.

The score is not an absolute measure of quality of care. It is a measure of access to resources and the availability of services that support breast cancer patients. The analysis would also consider the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and educational classes.

**Conclusion**

This 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis is a valuable tool for patients seeking primary care in Southport, North Carolina. It provides a framework for understanding the availability of resources and the accessibility of care. This hypothetical analysis highlights the importance of considering a range of factors beyond just the physician's credentials.

To visualize and explore the geographical distribution of these resources, and to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Southport and beyond, we invite you to explore the power of interactive mapping.

**Explore the possibilities of visualizing this data with CartoChrome maps. See how geographic data can enhance your understanding of healthcare access and resources. Contact us today to learn more.**