28463, Tabor City, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28463, Tabor City, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 71.01 percent of the residents in 28463 has some form of health insurance. 43.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.21 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 28463 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,266 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28463. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,499 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 746 health care providers accessible to residents in 28463, Tabor City, North Carolina.

The task of assessing breast cancer care within a specific geographic area, such as ZIP Code 28463 (Tabor City, North Carolina), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, a critical foundation for early detection and ongoing management, and then examine the broader landscape of breast cancer care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for patients, playing a crucial role in breast cancer screening, risk assessment, and referral to specialists. The availability of PCPs in Tabor City, specifically within the 28463 ZIP code, is a fundamental factor. A high PCP-to-population ratio suggests greater accessibility, leading to more frequent check-ups and potentially earlier detection of suspicious symptoms. Conversely, a low ratio could indicate longer wait times for appointments and limited access to preventative care. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with population estimates, would be necessary to calculate this ratio accurately.

The analysis must also consider the types of primary care practices available. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often offer a wider range of services and potentially better coordination of care. The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine practices, and women's health specialists within the primary care network is also significant. The more diverse the primary care options, the better the chances of finding a physician who meets individual needs and preferences.

Beyond primary care, the analysis needs to assess the broader breast cancer care infrastructure. This includes the availability of radiologists for mammograms, surgeons specializing in breast cancer, oncologists for treatment, and support staff such as nurses and patient navigators. The proximity of these specialists to Tabor City is crucial. Patients who have to travel long distances for appointments may face additional burdens, including transportation costs and time away from work or family.

Physician-to-patient ratios for specialists are another important metric. A high ratio of breast surgeons or oncologists to the population suggests greater access to specialized care. However, this ratio alone does not tell the whole story. The experience and expertise of the physicians, the quality of the facilities, and the availability of advanced treatment options are also critical factors.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines, and the outcomes of treatment. Practices that participate in quality improvement programs, such as those offered by the American College of Surgeons or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care. Reviewing online patient reviews, while subjective, can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to breast cancer care, particularly in rural areas like Tabor City. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and increasing the convenience of appointments. The availability of telemedicine for follow-up appointments, consultations, and even some types of therapy can be a significant advantage. The analysis should assess which practices offer telemedicine services and the types of services they provide.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or women's health is crucial. The analysis should examine the presence of these resources within the local healthcare system, including whether they are integrated into the cancer care team.

The presence of support groups, patient education programs, and financial assistance resources also contribute to the overall quality of care. Support groups provide a valuable opportunity for patients to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Patient education programs can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. Financial assistance resources can help patients manage the costs of treatment, which can be substantial.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Tabor City (ZIP Code 28463) would be a composite score based on all of these factors. The score would not be a single number, but rather a nuanced assessment that highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. The score should also be dynamic, reflecting changes in the availability of services, the quality of care, and the adoption of new technologies.

The final analysis would offer a clear picture of the current state of breast cancer care in Tabor City, empowering patients and healthcare providers with the information they need to improve access to care and outcomes. The assessment would be a living document, updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To visualize this data and gain a spatial understanding of the healthcare resources available in Tabor City and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for mapping and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to see the distribution of physicians, specialists, and other resources in relation to the population. This visual approach can reveal patterns and insights that would be difficult to discern from a purely textual analysis.