28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.71 percent of the residents in 28468 has some form of health insurance. 55.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.46 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 28468 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 418 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28468. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,138 health care providers accessible to residents in 28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina.

The task of assessing the quality of breast cancer care within a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. Focusing on ZIP Code 28468, which encompasses Sunset Beach, North Carolina, this analysis attempts to provide a ‘Breast Cancer Score’ reflecting the availability, accessibility, and quality of care. This score isn't a single number, but rather a composite of factors examined to paint a picture of the landscape for patients.

The initial consideration is the physician-to-patient ratio, a fundamental indicator of access. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau must be combined. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists (oncologists, surgeons, radiologists) practicing within the ZIP code is crucial. Then, this number is compared to the estimated population of 28468. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. However, this raw ratio is only the starting point.

The availability of specialists is paramount. Breast cancer care is inherently multidisciplinary. A strong ‘Breast Cancer Score’ hinges on the presence of oncologists, breast surgeons, and radiologists specializing in mammography and other imaging techniques. Proximity to these specialists is vital. Does the ZIP code itself house these specialists, or must patients travel to neighboring towns like Shallotte or Wilmington? Travel time, particularly for frequent appointments or emergencies, significantly impacts the patient experience.

Standout practices within the region deserve specific attention. Identifying clinics or hospitals with a demonstrable commitment to breast cancer care is key. Are there practices with accredited breast centers, adhering to rigorous standards for diagnosis and treatment? Do they offer comprehensive services, including genetic counseling, access to clinical trials, and survivorship programs? Reviews from patients and healthcare professionals, if available, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. This includes the responsiveness of staff, the clarity of communication, and the overall atmosphere of the practice.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telemedicine, and its continued integration can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Does the area's primary care providers and specialists offer virtual consultations? Can patients receive follow-up appointments, discuss test results, or receive support remotely? Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve convenience, and potentially improve patient outcomes. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration contributes to the ‘Breast Cancer Score’.

Beyond the purely medical aspects, the availability of mental health resources is essential. A breast cancer diagnosis is often accompanied by emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ must consider the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology patients. Are there support groups, either in-person or online, available for patients and their families? Does the local healthcare system have established referral pathways to mental health services? Access to these resources can significantly impact a patient's overall well-being and ability to cope with the challenges of treatment and recovery.

Primary care availability in Sunset Beach is a crucial aspect of the overall assessment. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screening, and referrals to specialists. The density of PCPs within the area, coupled with their willingness to perform breast cancer screenings, impacts the early detection of the disease. The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ must evaluate the ease of access to primary care, including appointment availability, insurance acceptance, and the ability to establish a long-term relationship with a trusted physician.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ also considers the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to physical therapy for lymphedema management, nutritional counseling, and other supportive care services. The presence of these services demonstrates a commitment to holistic care, addressing the physical and emotional needs of patients throughout their journey. The availability of these services contributes to a higher score.

The overall infrastructure supporting breast cancer care in 28468 is another factor. This includes the presence of diagnostic facilities equipped with state-of-the-art imaging technology, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis). The accreditation status of these facilities, and their adherence to quality standards, are critical. The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ evaluates the level of investment in technology and infrastructure, which can directly impact the accuracy of diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatment.

In conclusion, the ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for doctors in ZIP Code 28468 and primary care availability in Sunset Beach is a complex evaluation. It requires a detailed assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall infrastructure supporting breast cancer care. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the landscape of breast cancer care in this specific area.

To delve deeper into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. They offer a powerful visualization tool for understanding the spatial relationships between patients, providers, and healthcare services.