28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.63 percent of the residents in 28512 has some form of health insurance. 50.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.58 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 28512 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 345 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28512. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,409 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,686 health care providers accessible to residents in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are complex, requiring a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability of resources and the quality of care for breast cancer patients within ZIP code 28512 (Atlantic Beach, North Carolina) and its surrounding areas, focusing on primary care availability and the overall preparedness of the medical community. We will evaluate several key factors, aiming to provide a comprehensive ‘Breast Cancer Score’ assessment.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Regular screenings, early detection, and referrals are crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio is a primary indicator of accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Analyzing the ratio within 28512 and the neighboring communities is essential. Furthermore, the availability of primary care physicians who specialize in women's health, or who have a demonstrated interest in breast cancer prevention and early detection, is a significant advantage.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes not only the technical aspects of diagnosis and treatment but also the provision of supportive services. We will look for practices that offer on-site mammography, ultrasound, and potentially even biopsy services. The presence of dedicated breast cancer navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, is a strong indicator of a patient-centered approach. The integration of multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and radiation oncologists, is also a critical factor.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel. Examining the extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in the 28512 area utilize telemedicine platforms will be a key component of our assessment. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth for follow-up appointments.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical to the well-being of breast cancer patients. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as individual therapy, support groups, and psychiatric care, is a vital element of comprehensive care. We will assess the accessibility of these resources within the 28512 area, including the presence of mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ will be a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these factors. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. Each factor will be weighted based on its relative importance in contributing to positive patient outcomes. The final score will provide a snapshot of the overall preparedness of the medical community in the 28512 area to address the needs of breast cancer patients.

We will also consider the availability of financial assistance programs and patient education resources. Cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. The presence of programs that help patients manage the costs of care, such as grants, insurance assistance, and payment plans, will be factored into the score. Patient education is also crucial. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects are better equipped to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

The quality of diagnostic imaging services is a critical component of breast cancer care. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and breast MRI, can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and detection of early-stage cancers. We will evaluate the availability of these technologies within the 28512 area and the expertise of the radiologists who interpret the images. The accreditation status of imaging facilities, such as those accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR), will also be considered.

The presence of clinical trials is another factor that can enhance the ‘Breast Cancer Score’. Participation in clinical trials provides patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and can contribute to advancements in breast cancer research. We will assess the availability of clinical trials within the 28512 area and the types of trials that are being offered. The presence of a dedicated research team at local hospitals or cancer centers is a positive indicator.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ will be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving landscape of breast cancer care. Regular updates and reassessments will be necessary to ensure that the score accurately reflects the current state of resources and the quality of care. This analysis aims to provide valuable information to patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, empowering them to make informed decisions and advocate for improved breast cancer care in the 28512 area.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a more informed and empowered patient population. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, patients can make better choices about their care and advocate for improvements. This analysis is a starting point for a more in-depth exploration of breast cancer care in Atlantic Beach and the surrounding communities.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28512 and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource distribution, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and the overall preparedness of the community.