28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.56 percent of the residents in 28480 has some form of health insurance. 22.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.14 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 28480 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 308 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28480. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 556 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,819 health care providers accessible to residents in 28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Wrightsville Beach (ZIP Code 28480)

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer care within Wrightsville Beach (ZIP Code 28480) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the landscape of primary care physicians, the presence of specialists, the integration of technology, and the availability of crucial support services. This analysis will provide a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible and competent primary care. In Wrightsville Beach, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Without precise data on the exact number of practicing primary care physicians and the total population, a definitive ratio is impossible. However, the overall healthcare landscape in New Hanover County, where Wrightsville Beach is located, suggests a potential challenge. The county, like many coastal communities, may experience fluctuations in population, particularly during peak tourist seasons, which can impact access to care.

The presence of primary care physicians is not the only factor. The quality of that care is also paramount. This includes the physician's commitment to preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and their ability to effectively communicate risk factors and treatment options. A strong primary care physician will proactively address breast health concerns and facilitate timely referrals to specialists.

Specialist availability, particularly oncologists and surgeons, is a crucial component of the breast cancer care continuum. While Wrightsville Beach is a relatively small community, it benefits from its proximity to Wilmington, a larger city with a more robust healthcare infrastructure. This geographic advantage likely provides access to specialized care, including surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. The presence of reputable hospitals and cancer centers in the Wilmington area is a significant positive factor in the "Breast Cancer Score" for Wrightsville Beach.

Telemedicine adoption represents a modern approach to healthcare delivery, especially beneficial for rural and coastal communities. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in the Wrightsville Beach area have embraced telemedicine is a key indicator of their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are likely to receive higher marks in our assessment.

Beyond the clinical aspects, the availability of mental health resources is vital for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. Access to therapists, support groups, and other mental health services is crucial for patient well-being. The presence of these resources, and their integration into the overall care plan, significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score."

Standout practices within the Wrightsville Beach area, or those serving its residents, will be those that excel in several key areas. These practices demonstrate a strong commitment to preventative care, offering comprehensive screening programs and patient education. They foster a collaborative approach to care, coordinating seamlessly with specialists and other healthcare providers. They embrace technology, utilizing electronic health records, patient portals, and telemedicine to enhance patient communication and convenience. Finally, they recognize the importance of mental health support, providing access to counseling and support groups.

Assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" also requires considering the patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the clarity of communication from healthcare providers, and the overall patient satisfaction with the care received. Patient reviews and feedback are invaluable in this assessment.

The financial aspect of healthcare also plays a role. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers is a critical factor. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, are more accessible to a broader segment of the population. Transparency in pricing and billing practices is also important.

The integration of community resources is another important element. Strong partnerships with local organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or local support groups, can enhance the overall quality of care. These partnerships provide patients with access to additional resources, such as educational materials, financial assistance, and support services.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Wrightsville Beach, ZIP code 28480, is a complex assessment. While the proximity to Wilmington offers access to specialized care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are crucial factors to consider. The strength of the primary care network, the integration of technology, and the overall patient experience will ultimately determine the quality of breast cancer care available in the area. A practice’s commitment to preventative screenings, collaborative care, and patient support services will determine its ranking.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wrightsville Beach and the surrounding areas, including the location of physician practices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, we invite you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize healthcare data, allowing you to identify potential gaps in care and assess the accessibility of services.