28508, Albertson, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28508, Albertson, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.84 percent of the residents in 28508 has some form of health insurance. 45.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.08 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 28508 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 528 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28508. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 235 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 853 health care providers accessible to residents in 28508, Albertson, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses breast cancer care and primary care availability within the context of ZIP code 28508 (specifically, for physicians practicing within that area) and the town of Albertson, North Carolina. This evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem.

The core of effective breast cancer care lies in early detection and prompt, coordinated treatment. Within 28508, an initial challenge is understanding the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly concerning primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, guiding them through screenings, providing referrals, and offering ongoing support. A low ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative care, including mammograms. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the North Carolina Medical Board can provide insights into these ratios, though the data can sometimes be delayed. The presence of specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, within the zip code is also critical. Their availability directly impacts the speed and quality of diagnosis and treatment.

Albertson, a smaller community, presents a different set of challenges. Primary care availability is a significant concern. Rural areas often face physician shortages, making it difficult for residents to access routine checkups and screenings. This scarcity can lead to a higher proportion of late-stage breast cancer diagnoses, as early detection becomes more challenging. Addressing this requires a multi-pronged approach, including incentivizing physicians to practice in rural areas, expanding telehealth services, and establishing mobile health clinics.

Identifying standout practices within 28508 is vital. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care, including advanced screening technologies, patient navigation programs, and multidisciplinary teams. Researching local hospitals and clinics, examining their accreditations (e.g., from the American College of Surgeons), and reviewing patient testimonials can help identify these exemplary providers. Furthermore, assessing the practices' involvement in clinical trials and their commitment to patient education are also key indicators of quality.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in improving access to care, especially in underserved areas like Albertson. Telehealth allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing disruptions to their lives. It's particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, and providing mental health support. Evaluating the availability of telehealth services among the physicians in 28508 and assessing their willingness to use these technologies is essential. Furthermore, ensuring that these services are accessible to all patients, regardless of their technological proficiency or socioeconomic status, is paramount.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within 28508 is vital. This includes evaluating whether local practices offer on-site counseling services, provide referrals to mental health professionals, and integrate mental health screenings into their care protocols. The presence of support groups and educational programs can also significantly improve patient outcomes.

In Albertson, the challenge of providing mental health support is amplified by the potential lack of local resources. Telehealth can be particularly important in bridging this gap, providing access to mental health professionals who may not be available locally. Community partnerships, such as collaborations between local hospitals and mental health organizations, can also help expand access to these essential services.

To conduct a comprehensive analysis, one would need to compile data from various sources. This includes information on physician demographics, practice locations, insurance acceptance, services offered, and patient satisfaction. Public health agencies, medical boards, and insurance providers can provide some of this data. Furthermore, online directories and patient reviews can offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided by individual physicians and practices.

The evaluation of breast cancer care should also consider the social determinants of health. Factors such as income, education, access to transportation, and cultural background can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions and ensuring equitable access to care.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care and primary care availability in 28508 and Albertson requires a multifaceted approach. This includes assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. Understanding the social determinants of health is also critical for ensuring equitable access to care.

To visualize the geographic distribution of these resources and gain deeper insights into the healthcare landscape, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you identify areas with limited access to care, visualize physician density, and analyze the impact of social determinants of health. Explore the power of data visualization to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your community.