28629, Glendale Springs, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28629, Glendale Springs, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 28629 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 28629 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28629. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,336 health care providers accessible to residents in 28629, Glendale Springs, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Glendale Springs, NC (ZIP Code 28629)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, especially concerning breast cancer care, in a defined geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 28629, encompassing Glendale Springs, North Carolina, evaluating the available resources and their potential impact on patient outcomes. We will examine physician availability, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), assess the presence of specialized care, and consider the integration of technology and mental health support, all crucial components of comprehensive breast cancer care.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer management is early detection and consistent follow-up. This necessitates a strong foundation of primary care, acting as the initial point of contact for patients. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Glendale Springs is paramount. While specific numbers fluctuate, a low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can hinder timely access to screenings, such as mammograms, and delay crucial referrals to specialists. This can have a detrimental impact on the prognosis and overall survival rates for breast cancer patients. The ratio needs to be compared to the state and national averages to determine if Glendale Springs is adequately served.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This includes the ability of PCPs to provide comprehensive preventative care, including breast cancer screenings, and to effectively communicate with patients about their risk factors and potential warning signs. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs and specialists is also crucial. Practices that have adopted sophisticated EHR systems can improve care coordination and reduce the risk of errors.

Specialized care for breast cancer, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is another critical factor. While Glendale Springs may not have these specialists directly within its borders, the proximity to larger medical centers in surrounding cities, such as Boone or Wilkesboro, is essential. The ease of access to these centers, considering factors like transportation and travel time, significantly impacts patient care. Analyzing the referral patterns from Glendale Springs PCPs to these specialized facilities is crucial to understanding the existing healthcare network and its effectiveness.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in Glendale Springs can significantly improve access to specialists, especially for consultations and follow-up appointments. This can reduce the need for frequent travel, which can be a significant burden for patients, particularly those undergoing treatment. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered and the technological infrastructure supporting them, is critical to evaluating the quality of care.

Mental health support is often overlooked but is a crucial component of breast cancer care. 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, within Glendale Springs or nearby communities is a key factor in assessing the overall quality of care. Integrating mental health services into the care plan can improve patient well-being and adherence to treatment regimens.

Standout practices in the area, if any, should be identified. These practices might be recognized for their exceptional patient care, innovative approaches to treatment, or commitment to community outreach. Identifying these practices can provide valuable insights into best practices and potential models for other healthcare providers in the area. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines, and participation in clinical trials.

The analysis of breast cancer care in Glendale Springs must also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. This includes factors such as insurance coverage, income levels, and access to transportation. Patients with limited financial resources or transportation options may face significant barriers to accessing timely and appropriate care. Understanding these challenges is crucial for developing strategies to improve healthcare equity in the community.

The presence of community outreach programs and educational initiatives focused on breast cancer awareness and prevention is another important factor to consider. These programs can play a crucial role in educating the public about risk factors, early detection methods, and available resources. Analyzing the scope and reach of these programs can help assess their effectiveness in promoting breast health within the community.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system. Patient navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, and accessing financial assistance. Their presence can significantly improve the patient experience and reduce the burden of managing their care.

In conclusion, evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in Glendale Springs, NC (28629) requires a comprehensive assessment of physician availability, specialized care access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and socioeconomic factors. By analyzing these elements, a clearer picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the existing healthcare system can be developed, paving the way for targeted improvements.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in Glendale Springs and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to resources, we recommend exploring the power of interactive mapping with CartoChrome maps. This tool allows for data-driven insights and a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.