28624, Ferguson, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28624, Ferguson, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.67 percent of the residents in 28624 has some form of health insurance. 34.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.45 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 28624 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 247 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28624. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 28624, Ferguson, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ferguson, NC (ZIP Code 28624)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care resources and primary care availability in Ferguson, North Carolina (ZIP code 28624). It aims to assess the quality and accessibility of care, considering factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The analysis will focus on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a call to action for utilizing CartoChrome maps for further exploration.

Ferguson, a small community, likely presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population base may impact the availability of specialized services, making primary care a vital entry point into the healthcare system. The success of breast cancer care hinges on the strength of the primary care network, the responsiveness of specialists, and the integration of supportive services.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In a rural setting like Ferguson, the number of primary care physicians and specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, is a critical factor. Low ratios can lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times for diagnostic tests, and reduced opportunities for early detection. Data on the number of physicians practicing within the ZIP code, coupled with the population size, will allow for a preliminary assessment of these ratios. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau will be essential for this calculation.

Standout practices within the area can significantly influence the overall quality of care. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial. This involves examining factors such as the use of advanced imaging technologies (e.g., 3D mammography), adherence to national guidelines for screening and treatment, and patient satisfaction scores. Researching local hospitals and clinics, and reviewing online patient testimonials, can reveal practices that consistently deliver high-quality care. It is important to note that the absence of a specialist within the ZIP code does not necessarily indicate poor care, as patients may seek services in nearby towns or cities.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. Telemedicine offers opportunities for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be physically present in Ferguson. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within local practices, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), is a key element of this analysis. Furthermore, evaluating the ease of use and patient satisfaction with these telemedicine platforms is crucial for understanding their impact on care accessibility.

The mental health of breast cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it is an integral part of their overall well-being. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a crucial factor in assessing the quality of care. Identifying local mental health providers, including those specializing in oncology-related mental health, and evaluating the accessibility of support groups and counseling services, is essential. Partnerships between primary care practices and mental health professionals can improve the coordination of care and ensure patients receive comprehensive support.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of breast cancer care in Ferguson. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care. The number of primary care physicians, their appointment availability, and their ability to provide comprehensive care, including breast cancer screening, are critical factors. Examining the types of services offered by primary care practices, including their screening protocols, referral pathways to specialists, and patient education programs, will provide a comprehensive understanding of their role in breast cancer care.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – will allow for the creation of a 'Breast Cancer Score' for the area. This score, while not a definitive measure, will provide a valuable snapshot of the current state of breast cancer care in Ferguson. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, with higher weights assigned to factors deemed more critical, such as physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of specialized services.

The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access. Income levels, insurance coverage rates, and transportation availability can significantly affect a patient's ability to access care. Analyzing these factors will provide a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing residents of Ferguson in their pursuit of breast cancer care. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other public health resources will be essential for this part of the analysis.

This analysis acknowledges that the information available may be limited. The small size of the community may mean that data is not readily available for all aspects of the assessment. However, every effort will be made to gather as much relevant information as possible. The analysis will be transparent in its methodology and limitations, allowing for a clear understanding of the conclusions reached.

The findings of this analysis are intended to inform residents of Ferguson, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the strengths and weaknesses of the local breast cancer care system. The goal is to identify areas for improvement and to promote the delivery of high-quality, accessible, and patient-centered care. The analysis will highlight potential areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and improving access to mental health resources.

In conclusion, this 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis provides a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape in Ferguson, North Carolina. It highlights the importance of primary care, the need for accessible specialized services, and the crucial role of mental health support. The analysis provides a foundation for understanding the complexities of breast cancer care in a rural setting.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic locations, and access to support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing you to explore the local healthcare landscape in greater detail. They can help you identify the locations of healthcare providers, assess the proximity of services to your home, and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the resources available in your community.