28612, Connellys Springs, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28612, Connellys Springs, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.03 percent of the residents in 28612 has some form of health insurance. 39.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.27 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 28612 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,796 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28612. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,096 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,748 health care providers accessible to residents in 28612, Connellys Springs, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Connellys Springs, NC (ZIP Code 28612)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28612, specifically focusing on breast cancer care and primary care availability in Connellys Springs, requires a multi-faceted approach. A "Breast Cancer Score" is a complex concept, but we can assess key factors influencing access to quality care. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice reputations, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for patients navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Connellys Springs, and the surrounding Burke County, is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialists, and increased travel distances for essential services. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for primary care physicians (PCPs) and oncologists, negatively impacts the overall score. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau would be essential to determine the current ratio. This data would need to be regularly updated to reflect any changes in the medical landscape.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective breast cancer screening and early detection. PCPs are often the first point of contact, guiding patients through mammograms, discussing family history, and providing referrals to specialists if necessary. The presence of a robust primary care network in Connellys Springs is vital. Assessing the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the types of services offered (including preventative care), and the accessibility of appointments are all crucial. A strong primary care network would significantly boost the Breast Cancer Score.

Identifying standout practices within the area is also essential. This involves evaluating the quality of care offered, patient satisfaction levels, and the availability of specialized services. This requires research into patient reviews, practice accreditations (e.g., from the American College of Surgeons), and the types of breast cancer treatments offered. Does the practice offer advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography? Are there dedicated breast health navigators to guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment? Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care would receive higher marks.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. The availability of telemedicine services, particularly for oncology consultations and mental health support, would improve the Breast Cancer Score. Examining which practices offer telemedicine options, the types of services offered, and the ease of access are all relevant.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are therefore critical for supporting patients throughout their journey. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, specializing in oncology or women’s health, is a significant factor. This includes assessing the availability of support groups, counseling services offered by local hospitals or clinics, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. Practices that prioritize mental health support would contribute positively to the Breast Cancer Score.

The analysis also needs to consider the availability of specialized breast cancer services. This includes access to surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and reconstructive surgeons. The proximity of these specialists, the quality of their services, and their integration into a coordinated care plan are all important. Does the local hospital have a dedicated breast cancer center? Are clinical trials available? The answers to these questions would significantly influence the overall score.

Furthermore, the Breast Cancer Score should consider the socio-economic factors impacting access to care. This includes the rates of health insurance coverage, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the transportation options available to patients. Patients with limited financial resources or transportation challenges may face significant barriers to accessing timely and appropriate care. Addressing these factors would improve the score.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Connellys Springs (ZIP code 28612) is not a static number. It reflects a dynamic healthcare environment that is constantly evolving. Regular updates and assessments are essential to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that patients have access to the best possible care. The score would be a composite of several factors, each weighted based on its importance to patient outcomes. The weight assigned to each factor would be determined by evidence-based research and expert opinion.

In conclusion, evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in Connellys Springs requires a comprehensive approach, taking into account physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and socio-economic factors. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Connellys Springs and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide valuable spatial insights into physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more informed understanding of the healthcare access within ZIP code 28612.