28472, Whiteville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28472, Whiteville, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.88 percent of the residents in 28472 has some form of health insurance. 44.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.72 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 28472 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,568 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28472. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,060 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 770 health care providers accessible to residents in 28472, Whiteville, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Whiteville, NC (ZIP Code 28472)

This analysis provides a nuanced assessment of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28472 (Whiteville, NC) and the surrounding areas, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" evaluation, informing residents about the accessibility and quality of care in their community.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on strong primary care. In Whiteville, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Research into the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 28472 is crucial. This involves analyzing the number of practicing primary care physicians, including family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners, against the total population of the ZIP code and surrounding areas. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and state medical boards can provide this information.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices is important. Are these practices geographically accessible to all residents, including those in rural areas or with limited transportation options? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is a positive indicator, as they often serve vulnerable populations and provide comprehensive services. Conversely, a lack of these resources can exacerbate health disparities.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices known for their commitment to preventive care, early detection, and patient education. Factors to consider include the availability of on-site mammography services, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient care coordination, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The ability to consult with a primary care physician or specialist remotely can reduce travel time, improve access to care for those with mobility limitations, and facilitate timely follow-up appointments. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of primary care practices in 28472 is critical. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring technologies, and the use of secure platforms for patient communication. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to score higher in this analysis.

The mental health component of breast cancer care is often overlooked, yet it is essential. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a key indicator of comprehensive care. This analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the availability of referrals to mental health specialists, and the existence of local support groups or organizations dedicated to breast cancer survivors. Practices that prioritize mental health support will receive a higher score.

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Whiteville, NC, will be a composite of these factors. Each element – physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – will be assigned a weighted value based on its relative importance. The final score will provide a snapshot of the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the community.

The analysis also considers the broader healthcare landscape. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department is a significant advantage. The availability of specialized breast cancer surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists is crucial for comprehensive care. The hospital’s accreditation status, its commitment to clinical trials, and its participation in national cancer registries are all indicators of quality.

Furthermore, the analysis will investigate the availability of supportive services, such as physical therapy, lymphedema management, and nutritional counseling. These services are essential for managing the side effects of treatment and improving the overall quality of life for breast cancer patients. The presence of these resources within the community will contribute to a higher score.

It's essential to acknowledge the limitations of this type of analysis. The data available may be incomplete or outdated. Patient experiences can vary widely. The “Breast Cancer Score” is intended to be a starting point for further investigation, not a definitive judgment. It is a tool to empower residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improvements in the local healthcare system.

This analysis will be updated periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new practices emerge, telemedicine adoption increases, and mental health resources become more readily available, the "Breast Cancer Score" will be adjusted accordingly. This dynamic approach ensures that the analysis remains relevant and useful to the community.

The assessment will strive to provide a clear and concise overview of the strengths and weaknesses of breast cancer care in Whiteville. It will highlight areas where the community excels and identify areas where improvement is needed. The ultimate goal is to promote better health outcomes for all residents.

For a visual representation of the data, including the geographic distribution of primary care practices, hospitals, and support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data, identify areas with limited access to care, and better understand the healthcare landscape in Whiteville, NC (28472).