28622, Elk Park, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28622, Elk Park, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.55 percent of the residents in 28622 has some form of health insurance. 49.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.53 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 28622 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 384 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28622. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 717 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,166 health care providers accessible to residents in 28622, Elk Park, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Elk Park, NC (ZIP Code 28622)**

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Elk Park, North Carolina (ZIP code 28622), requires a nuanced approach, considering not only the presence of medical professionals but also the accessibility and quality of services. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score," evaluates the available resources for early detection, treatment, and support, focusing on the critical elements for patients navigating this challenging disease. We will examine primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Elk Park, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as a crucial first point of contact. PCPs are instrumental in performing breast exams, ordering mammograms, and providing referrals to specialists when necessary. Assessing the density of PCPs in relation to the population is vital. A low physician-to-patient ratio could indicate potential delays in accessing routine screenings and follow-up care, which can negatively impact early detection and treatment outcomes. The current ratio needs to be assessed against national and state averages to determine whether Elk Park is adequately served.

Beyond the raw number of PCPs, the quality of primary care is equally important. This includes factors like the experience of the physicians, their familiarity with breast cancer screening guidelines, and their willingness to engage in patient education. Practices that emphasize preventive care, offer patient navigation services, and maintain strong referral networks to specialists should be considered high-performing. It is important to analyze if the primary care practices in Elk Park actively promote breast cancer awareness and provide patient education materials.

Specialist availability is another critical factor. Oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists play vital roles in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. The proximity of these specialists to Elk Park is a key consideration. Patients may need to travel to larger cities like Asheville or Johnson City for specialized care, and the distance and transportation options available can significantly impact access to care. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable distance would be a major advantage, providing access to multidisciplinary care, clinical trials, and advanced treatment options.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly enhance access to breast cancer care, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and access to educational resources. The extent to which medical practices in Elk Park utilize telemedicine platforms is a crucial indicator of their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. Practices that offer virtual appointments for follow-up care, medication management, and psychological support are likely to score higher in terms of patient-centered care.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet essential, component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore crucial. Analyzing the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is important. Are there partnerships between medical practices and mental health providers? Do practices offer on-site counseling services or referrals to qualified therapists?

Identifying standout practices within Elk Park requires a deeper dive into the services offered, the patient experience, and the outcomes achieved. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, patient education, and comprehensive care are likely to be considered leaders in breast cancer care. This can be assessed through patient reviews, community feedback, and data on screening rates and treatment outcomes. Analyzing patient satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by individual practices.

In addition to these factors, the presence of support groups and community resources can significantly enhance the patient experience. These groups provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community for patients and their families. The availability of these resources, and their accessibility to patients in Elk Park, should be considered. The presence of local chapters of national organizations like the American Cancer Society or Susan G. Komen can provide valuable support services.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Elk Park, NC (ZIP code 28622), is determined by a composite of these factors. A higher score indicates a more robust and accessible system of care, while a lower score suggests areas for improvement. Regular reassessment of the score is essential, as the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of community resources can all impact the score.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Elk Park, NC. By focusing on key indicators such as physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, this analysis offers a comprehensive assessment of the available resources for patients. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system is critical for improving patient outcomes and ensuring that individuals have access to the best possible care.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, explore the CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data points, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elk Park and the surrounding areas.