28616, Crossnore, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 36.84 percent of the residents in 28616 has some form of health insurance. 17.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 27.63 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 28616 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28616. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 20 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,976 health care providers accessible to residents in 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Crossnore, NC (ZIP Code 28616)

Analyzing healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer care, within the Crossnore, North Carolina (ZIP code 28616) area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing the quality and accessibility of breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients. They are responsible for routine screenings, patient education, and referrals to specialists. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Crossnore is critical. A low PCP-to-patient ratio suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, leading to delays in screenings and diagnoses. This area's rural nature may exacerbate this issue, as physician recruitment and retention are often more challenging in less populated areas.

The specific physician-to-patient ratio in Crossnore (28616) needs investigation. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services could provide this information. A ratio significantly higher than the national average, especially for rural areas, would indicate a potential shortage. Further research into the types of PCPs available (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine) is also essential. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often provide primary care services, should also be considered.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. This involves examining the practices within the ZIP code. Are there any standout practices known for their commitment to preventive care, including breast cancer screening? Do these practices offer services like mammograms on-site, or do they have established referral pathways to local imaging centers? The existence of patient portals, which allow for online appointment scheduling, communication with providers, and access to medical records, can also significantly improve access.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, particularly in rural areas like Crossnore. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even receive remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care. The availability of telemedicine services for breast cancer screening, such as virtual consultations for discussing screening results or providing educational resources, is a significant advantage. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local PCPs and specialists will directly impact the score.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical component of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for supporting patients through this difficult journey. The availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through established referral pathways is a significant positive factor. The presence of support groups, either in-person or online, is another valuable resource.

Furthermore, the existence of local cancer support organizations and their outreach efforts should be considered. These organizations often provide valuable resources, such as financial assistance, transportation to appointments, and educational programs. Collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, and support organizations can create a more holistic and supportive care environment.

Assessing the availability of specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is also essential. The proximity of these specialists to Crossnore and the ease of access to their services are crucial. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated breast cancer center or a strong affiliation with a larger cancer center in a nearby city would significantly improve the score. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), also plays a role.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Crossnore (28616) would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care base, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, accessible specialist care, and robust support systems. A lower score would reflect challenges in one or more of these areas, highlighting the need for improvement.

The specific practices within Crossnore (28616) need to be evaluated for their performance in these areas. Some practices might be leading the way in offering comprehensive breast cancer care, while others might need to improve their services. Identifying these differences is crucial for understanding the overall healthcare landscape.

The analysis would need to consider the socio-economic factors of the Crossnore population. Factors such as income levels, insurance coverage rates, and transportation access can significantly impact access to care. Addressing these disparities is essential for ensuring equitable access to breast cancer screening and treatment.

In conclusion, a thorough analysis of the healthcare landscape in Crossnore (28616) is crucial for assessing the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care. This analysis requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors such as primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and specialist access. This analysis helps to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare environment.

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