28513, Ayden, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28513, Ayden, North Carolina is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.52 percent of the residents in 28513 has some form of health insurance. 39.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.24 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 28513 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,234 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28513. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,782 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 941 health care providers accessible to residents in 28513, Ayden, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ayden, NC (ZIP Code 28513)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape in Ayden, North Carolina (ZIP code 28513) requires a multi-faceted approach, evaluating not just the presence of medical professionals but also the accessibility, quality, and supportive resources available to patients. This analysis will provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, taking into account physician-to-patient ratios, the prominence of specific practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in a patient's journey. Primary care availability, a foundational element, will be assessed within the context of Ayden.

The core of effective breast cancer care hinges on a strong primary care foundation. In Ayden, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. A robust PCP network ensures early detection through regular screenings and provides a crucial point of contact for patients navigating the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the PCP-to-population ratio is paramount. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased wait times for appointments, and ultimately, poorer patient outcomes. Investigating the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 28513 ZIP code, compared to the total population, provides a preliminary understanding of accessibility. This ratio should be benchmarked against state and national averages to determine if Ayden faces a shortage or enjoys a more favorable situation.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. Are the PCPs in Ayden equipped with the latest screening technologies, such as digital mammography? Do they actively participate in continuing medical education to stay abreast of advancements in breast cancer detection and treatment? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, ensuring timely access to oncologists, surgeons, and other vital members of the care team? These factors contribute to a more comprehensive assessment of the primary care landscape.

Moving beyond primary care, the availability of specialized breast cancer care within a reasonable radius is crucial. This includes oncologists, breast surgeons, radiologists specializing in breast imaging, and radiation oncologists. The presence of these specialists, and their proximity to Ayden, directly impacts patient convenience and access to specialized expertise. The "Breast Cancer Score" will consider the number of these specialists actively serving patients in the region, and the average travel time required to reach their practices. A shorter travel time translates to less stress and greater convenience for patients, which can significantly improve their overall experience.

The reputation and performance of specific medical practices in the area are also critical. Are there any standout practices known for their expertise in breast cancer care? This could be based on factors such as patient reviews, accreditations from organizations like the American College of Surgeons, and the use of advanced treatment modalities. Identifying and highlighting these practices can provide valuable guidance to patients seeking the best possible care. The analysis will incorporate data from patient surveys, online reviews, and publicly available performance metrics to identify practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer treatment.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Ayden. The adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who may face geographical barriers or transportation challenges. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the extent to which telemedicine is utilized for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Telemedicine can provide access to specialists who might not be readily available in Ayden, expanding the range of expertise accessible to patients.

Breast cancer treatment is not just about physical care; it also has a profound impact on mental health. The emotional toll of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be significant. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The analysis will assess the availability of these resources in Ayden and the surrounding areas. This includes the number of mental health professionals specializing in oncology, the presence of support groups, and the accessibility of these services to patients. A robust network of mental health support can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of their journey, improving their overall well-being and treatment outcomes.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will also consider the availability of patient navigation services. Patient navigators are trained professionals who guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, helping them access resources, understand their treatment options, and manage their appointments. The presence of patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience, reducing stress and ensuring that patients receive the support they need. The analysis will evaluate the availability of patient navigation services in Ayden and the surrounding areas.

Finally, the overall "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite measure, weighing all the factors discussed above. It will reflect the overall quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care available to patients in Ayden, NC. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing patients to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. It will also highlight areas where improvements are needed, promoting better care and ultimately, better outcomes for patients. The score is not a static value; it is intended to be a dynamic assessment, updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To further explore the geographic distribution of these healthcare resources, and visualize the factors contributing to the "Breast Cancer Score," consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive, data-driven visualization of the healthcare landscape in Ayden and the surrounding areas, allowing you to see the locations of physicians, specialists, and support services, and how they relate to the population distribution.