28557, Morehead City, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28557, Morehead City, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.46 percent of the residents in 28557 has some form of health insurance. 40.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.22 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 28557 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,737 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 8 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28557. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,691 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,882 health care providers accessible to residents in 28557, Morehead City, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 28557 (Morehead City, North Carolina), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the resources available to individuals navigating breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The information is gathered from publicly available data and may not be entirely exhaustive.

Morehead City, a coastal community, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's size and geographic location, while offering a desirable lifestyle, can influence the availability of specialized medical services. Primary care, the cornerstone of preventative health, plays a critical role in early detection and management of breast cancer. The accessibility of primary care physicians directly impacts the likelihood of timely screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing support.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of healthcare access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on physician density within ZIP Code 28557 and the surrounding Carteret County is crucial for understanding the existing capacity of the healthcare system. Examining the number of primary care physicians, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons in the area provides a clearer picture of the resources available for breast cancer care.

Standout practices in Morehead City are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes offering advanced screening technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and providing access to multidisciplinary teams. These teams typically include primary care physicians, radiologists, surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and oncology nurses. The integration of these specialists ensures coordinated care and a holistic approach to treatment. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and offer patient navigation services are also highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and access to support groups and educational resources. The extent to which primary care practices and specialist offices in Morehead City have embraced telemedicine technologies is a key factor in evaluating the overall quality of care. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote patient monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows.

Mental health resources are an integral part of breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological impact of a diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be profound. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential for patients' well-being. The availability of these resources within Morehead City, including the presence of oncology social workers, therapists specializing in cancer care, and support groups, is a critical component of a comprehensive care model.

The analysis of primary care availability in Morehead City involves several factors. The number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP Code and surrounding areas is a primary indicator. The acceptance of new patients by these physicians is also a significant factor. Furthermore, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent needs is essential. The presence of after-hours care options, such as urgent care clinics or telehealth services, is also an important consideration.

Specific practices in Morehead City that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer care should be highlighted. This includes practices that offer advanced screening technologies, such as 3D mammography, and those that have established multidisciplinary teams. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and offer patient navigation services are also highly valued. The presence of certified breast health navigators can significantly improve the patient experience by assisting with appointments, insurance, and emotional support.

The integration of telemedicine in Morehead City’s healthcare system is also a key factor. The availability of virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and access to support groups and educational resources are all important considerations. The extent to which primary care practices and specialist offices have embraced telemedicine technologies is a key factor in evaluating the overall quality of care.

Mental health support services are an integral part of breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological impact of a diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be profound. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential for patients' well-being. The availability of these resources within Morehead City, including the presence of oncology social workers, therapists specializing in cancer care, and support groups, is a critical component of a comprehensive care model.

In conclusion, the quality of breast cancer care in Morehead City, North Carolina, is determined by a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of advanced screening and treatment options, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, patient navigation services, and a strong emphasis on patient support are essential for providing comprehensive and compassionate care.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and other relevant data points within Morehead City and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps and data visualizations that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas where access to care may be limited.