28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.92 percent of the residents in 28586 has some form of health insurance. 42.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.44 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 28586 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,477 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28586. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,278 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Vanceboro, NC (ZIP Code 28586)**

Vanceboro, North Carolina, a small community nestled in the coastal plain, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer detection and treatment. Evaluating the quality of care available within the 28586 ZIP code requires a nuanced approach, considering not only the presence of physicians but also the accessibility of services, the integration of technology, and the availability of supportive resources. This analysis aims to provide a 'Breast Cancer Score' perspective, examining key factors that influence a patient's journey from screening to survivorship.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, responsible for routine screenings, referrals, and overall health management. In Vanceboro, the availability of PCPs is a crucial factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. The score for this area will be impacted by the documented physician-to-patient ratio. The presence of a sufficient number of PCPs is essential for ensuring timely access to care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, patient education, and proactive screening protocols. These practices often utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for efficient tracking of patient histories, scheduling of mammograms, and communication of results. They also may actively promote breast cancer awareness through community outreach programs and educational materials. A high score here will be assigned to practices that have a documented commitment to these elements.

Telemedicine is emerging as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Vanceboro. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists can significantly improve access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health services. Telemedicine can reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for appointments, saving time and resources. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, will receive a higher score. The ability to conduct remote consultations with specialists in radiology or oncology, for example, can expedite the diagnostic process and provide patients with timely expert opinions.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups can help patients navigate the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or referral networks, will be given a higher score. This includes providing access to support groups, educational materials, and resources for coping with the emotional and psychological aspects of the disease.

Specialist availability is another crucial element. While PCPs are the gatekeepers, the presence of specialists like oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists is essential for providing advanced diagnostic and treatment services. The proximity of these specialists to Vanceboro, and the ease with which patients can access their services, will influence the overall score. This includes the availability of local or regional cancer centers, the expertise of the specialists, and the waiting times for appointments and procedures. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to care, would significantly enhance the score.

The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI, is also important. These technologies can improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. Practices and facilities that offer these advanced imaging options will be given a higher score. The integration of these technologies into the screening process can lead to earlier detection and improved outcomes.

The integration of patient navigation services is another key factor. Patient navigators are healthcare professionals who help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. They can provide assistance with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial resources. Practices that offer patient navigation services will receive a higher score.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for Vanceboro, NC (28586) will be determined by weighing these factors. The score will reflect the availability and accessibility of primary care, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of specialists, the availability of advanced imaging technologies, and the integration of patient navigation services. A high score indicates a robust and accessible breast cancer care system, while a low score highlights areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape of Vanceboro and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations of geographic data, allowing you to explore healthcare resources in detail and gain a deeper understanding of the accessibility of care in your community.