28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.10 percent of the residents in 28573 has some form of health insurance. 42.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.53 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 28573 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 388 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 23 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28573. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 323 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,302 health care providers accessible to residents in 28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Pollocksville, NC (ZIP Code 28573)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP code 28573, focusing on primary care availability and the overall healthcare landscape in Pollocksville, North Carolina. The goal is to evaluate the resources available to women in this community, considering factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and supportive care. This analysis will not produce a numerical score, but instead, a narrative assessment of the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement within the local healthcare system.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Pollocksville, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts a woman's ability to receive routine screenings, referrals, and ongoing support. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A high ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial diagnostic procedures like mammograms. Research into the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 28573 is paramount. Data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the US Census Bureau, and professional medical organizations will be necessary to calculate this ratio accurately. This data should be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care in Pollocksville.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices is critical. Practices demonstrating a commitment to breast cancer prevention and care often implement specific protocols. These might include proactive patient education programs, reminders for mammogram screenings, and streamlined referral processes to specialists. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as health fairs or educational workshops, can significantly increase breast cancer awareness. Investigating the presence of these initiatives within the local practices is essential. Analyzing patient reviews and testimonials can also reveal valuable insights into the patient experience, including the quality of communication, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall level of care provided.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Implications:**

Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for enhancing healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Pollocksville. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve the delivery of care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in 28573 involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. The availability of these technologies can be a significant advantage for women seeking timely access to healthcare services, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and mental health support.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a woman's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in Pollocksville is crucial. This includes assessing the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology-related mental health issues. Investigating whether local practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals is essential. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community for women navigating the challenges of breast cancer. Furthermore, exploring the availability of resources for financial assistance and practical support, such as transportation or childcare, can help alleviate some of the burdens associated with treatment.

**Specifics of the Pollocksville Healthcare Landscape:**

Pollocksville, being a relatively small community, may face unique challenges in healthcare access. The proximity to larger cities and medical centers, such as those in New Bern, can influence the availability of specialized services. Assessing the referral patterns of local PCPs is important. Are patients routinely referred to specialists in nearby cities for mammograms, biopsies, and treatment? The efficiency of these referral pathways and the transportation options available to patients are crucial factors. The presence of mobile mammography units that visit the area can also improve access to screening services. Furthermore, evaluating the insurance coverage landscape in the area is critical. The availability of affordable health insurance options and the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices can significantly impact access to care.

**Data Collection and Analysis:**

Gathering the necessary data requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes:

* **Public Records:** Examining data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the US Census Bureau, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
* **Physician Surveys:** Contacting local primary care practices and specialists to gather information on services offered, telemedicine adoption, and referral practices.
* **Patient Interviews:** Conducting interviews or surveys with patients to gather insights into their experiences with the local healthcare system.
* **Online Research:** Reviewing online resources such as practice websites, patient reviews, and community health directories.

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Pollocksville, NC (28573) requires a thorough examination of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of standout practices, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement to ensure that women in Pollocksville have access to high-quality, timely, and supportive breast cancer care. The specifics of the local healthcare landscape must be thoroughly investigated to provide a complete picture.

**Call to Action:**

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Pollocksville and other areas, explore the power of spatial data analysis. Leverage the advanced mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility and resource distribution. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, patient demographics, and the geographic distribution of healthcare services.