28478, Willard, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28478, Willard, North Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.25 percent of the residents in 28478 has some form of health insurance. 41.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.78 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 28478 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,265 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28478. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 731 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 241 health care providers accessible to residents in 28478, Willard, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Willard, NC (ZIP Code 28478)**

Evaluating the landscape of breast cancer care within Willard, North Carolina (ZIP code 28478) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources to formulate a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score'. This score, though not a numerical value in this format, provides an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare ecosystem concerning breast cancer.

The primary focus will be on primary care availability, as this is often the initial point of contact for patients and a crucial factor in early detection and referral for specialized care. The analysis also considers the availability of specialists, the presence of advanced diagnostic equipment, and the integration of mental health services, all of which contribute to a patient-centered approach.

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

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. Determining the exact ratio within ZIP code 28478 requires data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau. However, Willard, as a more rural area, likely faces challenges related to physician shortages, a common issue in underserved communities. This means the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) per 1,000 residents is likely lower than the national average. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses.

Furthermore, the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is crucial. Even if the overall physician-to-patient ratio appears adequate, if PCPs are concentrated in one area, residents in other parts of Willard may face significant travel barriers to access care.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics**

Identifying "standout" practices requires a deeper dive into the specific providers operating within and near ZIP code 28478. This involves researching the services offered, the experience of the physicians, and the availability of advanced technologies. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer care often have several key characteristics. These include:

* **Early Detection Focus:** Practices emphasizing regular mammograms, clinical breast exams, and patient education on self-exams are highly valued.
* **Referral Networks:** Strong connections with oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists are essential for seamless patient care.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) for mammography services indicates adherence to high-quality standards.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into patient experiences and satisfaction levels.

Practices that have these features would likely be considered "standout" in the context of breast cancer care. Without specific practice names, this assessment remains general.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine for breast cancer care can take various forms:

* **Virtual Consultations:** PCPs and specialists can conduct virtual appointments for initial consultations, follow-up visits, and discussing test results.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Patients can use wearable devices and remote monitoring systems to track vital signs and report symptoms to their healthcare providers.
* **Tele-Radiology:** Radiologists can review mammograms and other imaging studies remotely, facilitating timely diagnoses.

The level of telemedicine adoption within Willard is a key factor in the 'Breast Cancer Score'. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient access, reduce travel burdens, and enhance communication between patients and providers.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources and their integration into breast cancer care is a critical component of a holistic approach. This includes:

* **On-site Therapists:** Some practices may have on-site therapists or counselors specializing in oncology to provide emotional support and counseling.
* **Referral Networks:** Practices should have established referral networks with mental health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and support groups.
* **Support Groups:** Local support groups offer a valuable platform for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges.

The presence of these resources and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan significantly enhance the 'Breast Cancer Score' and improve the patient experience.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion**

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Willard, NC (ZIP code 28478) is heavily influenced by the availability of primary care physicians, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Given the likely challenges associated with rural healthcare, the score might be impacted by the scarcity of specialists and the potential limitations in access to advanced diagnostic equipment.

However, practices that prioritize early detection, establish strong referral networks, embrace telemedicine, and integrate mental health services can significantly improve the quality of care and enhance the 'Breast Cancer Score'.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Willard, NC, and visualize the distribution of healthcare providers and resources, we recommend exploring the interactive maps and data visualization tools offered by CartoChrome. These tools can provide valuable insights into physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points.