Health Scores Near 28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina
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The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 88.06 percent of the residents in 28626 has some form of health insurance. 34.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.44 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 28626 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 471 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28626. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 605 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,845 health care providers accessible to residents in 28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina
| Breast Cancer Score | 74 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 84 |
| Provider Score | 36 |
| Hospital Score | 59 |
| Travel Score | 49 |
| 28626 | Fleetwood | North Carolina | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The task requires a detailed analysis of breast cancer care within a specific ZIP code, focusing on physician availability, practice quality, and access to supportive services. It also necessitates the inclusion of telemedicine adoption and mental health resources.
**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28626 (Fleetwood, NC)**
Evaluating breast cancer care within Fleetwood, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28626), demands a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the presence of medical professionals but also the quality of their services, the accessibility of care, and the availability of supportive resources. This analysis will attempt to paint a comprehensive picture, acknowledging the limitations of publicly available data and the inherent complexities of healthcare evaluation.
The initial hurdle is the limited scope of a single ZIP code. While Fleetwood provides a geographical anchor, the reality is that residents likely seek care outside its boundaries, particularly for specialized services like oncology. Therefore, this analysis will consider the broader healthcare ecosystem surrounding Fleetwood, including the nearest towns and cities with significant medical facilities.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability**
A critical starting point is assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within and around Fleetwood. This involves identifying the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast health actively practicing in the area. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the North Carolina Medical Board and the American Medical Association, can provide some of this information. However, these databases often lack real-time updates and don't always reflect the specific scope of a physician's practice.
The availability of PCPs is particularly crucial. They serve as the initial point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screening recommendations, and referrals to specialists. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes. In Fleetwood, a thorough investigation would require a deep dive into local healthcare networks, examining appointment wait times, and assessing the acceptance of new patients by primary care practices.
**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**
Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. The presence of board-certified specialists is a primary indicator of quality. Furthermore, examining the accreditation status of local hospitals and clinics is essential. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (for cancer programs) signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care.
Beyond certifications, patient reviews and testimonials offer valuable insights. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc can provide a glimpse into patient experiences, highlighting strengths and weaknesses of specific practices. However, it's crucial to approach these reviews with caution, recognizing potential biases and the limitations of relying solely on anecdotal evidence.
The use of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is another important consideration. These technologies can improve the detection of breast cancer, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. Practices offering comprehensive breast imaging services, including ultrasound and MRI, are generally better positioned to provide high-quality care.
**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility**
Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Fleetwood. Its adoption can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires investigating which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services.
The availability of reliable internet access is a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine. In rural areas, internet connectivity can be inconsistent, potentially hindering access to virtual care. This analysis should consider the internet infrastructure in Fleetwood and its impact on telemedicine adoption.
**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care**
Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have significant emotional and psychological impacts. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer-related issues.
The presence of oncology social workers within medical practices is also a positive indicator. These professionals provide emotional support, practical assistance, and help navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Furthermore, access to resources like patient navigators can help guide patients through their treatment journey.
**Specific Considerations for Fleetwood**
Due to the rural nature of Fleetwood, access to specialized care may be limited. Patients may need to travel to larger cities like Boone or Winston-Salem for oncology services. This necessitates a focus on transportation options and the availability of patient support programs that can assist with travel expenses and lodging.
Furthermore, the demographics of Fleetwood should be considered. Understanding the age, socioeconomic status, and cultural backgrounds of the population can help tailor healthcare services to meet specific needs. For instance, providing culturally sensitive care and addressing language barriers can improve patient outcomes.
**Concluding Remarks**
Creating a definitive "Breast Cancer Score" for Fleetwood requires a comprehensive data collection effort. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the key components of breast cancer care, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While a precise numerical score is challenging to generate without extensive data, this analysis highlights the critical factors that contribute to the quality and accessibility of care in the region.
To visualize the healthcare landscape and gain a clearer understanding of physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data, helping to identify areas of strength and weakness in the healthcare system.
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