28631, Grassy Creek, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28631, Grassy Creek, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.66 percent of the residents in 28631 has some form of health insurance. 38.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.01 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 28631 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 483 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28631. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 92 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 213 health care providers accessible to residents in 28631, Grassy Creek, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28631 and Primary Care in Grassy Creek**

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28631, focusing on physician availability, quality of care, and the broader healthcare ecosystem, particularly concerning primary care access in the adjacent area of Grassy Creek. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients and highlight areas of strength and potential improvement. A "Breast Cancer Score" is implicitly considered, based on a composite of factors influencing access to care, quality of care, and supportive services.

The physician-to-patient ratio within 28631 is a crucial starting point. Accurate data on this metric requires access to comprehensive databases of licensed physicians and the demographic profile of the population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, often translates to longer wait times for appointments, potential difficulty in accessing specialized care, and increased stress for patients. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare system. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau would be essential to calculate this ratio accurately. The analysis would need to differentiate between primary care physicians, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, as each plays a vital role in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by individual practices is paramount. This assessment necessitates examining several factors. First, the experience and qualifications of the physicians are crucial. Board certification in relevant specialties (oncology, surgery, radiology) is a strong indicator of expertise. Secondly, the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies is a key consideration. Access to state-of-the-art mammography equipment, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is critical for early detection. The presence of on-site or readily accessible facilities for biopsies, ultrasounds, and other diagnostic procedures streamlines the patient journey. Thirdly, the adoption of evidence-based treatment protocols, adherence to national guidelines (such as those from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network), and participation in clinical trials are indicators of a commitment to providing the best possible care.

Standout practices within 28631 would be those that excel in these areas. Identifying these practices requires a multi-faceted approach. Patient reviews and testimonials, available through online platforms, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication, empathy, and overall satisfaction. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, also signifies a commitment to quality and adherence to rigorous standards. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, provide patient education resources, and offer support groups often demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in evaluating the accessibility of care, especially in rural areas like those surrounding Grassy Creek. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. The availability of telehealth options for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offer virtual consultations, and integrate remote monitoring technologies are likely to be more accessible and convenient for patients. The analysis would need to investigate the extent to which local practices offer these services and the types of telehealth platforms they utilize.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis would need to assess the availability of these resources within 28631 and the surrounding areas. This includes identifying mental health providers who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients, as well as the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other mental health programs.

Primary care availability in Grassy Creek is directly relevant to the overall breast cancer care landscape. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screening, and referrals to specialists. The availability of primary care physicians in Grassy Creek, and their ability to facilitate timely referrals for mammograms and other screenings, significantly impacts the early detection of breast cancer. The analysis would need to examine the physician-to-patient ratio in Grassy Creek, the availability of primary care practices, and the ease with which patients can access these services. This would include assessing wait times for appointments, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of after-hours or weekend care.

The overall “Breast Cancer Score” for the region, therefore, is a complex calculation. It would need to weigh the factors discussed above, assigning relative values to each based on their importance. The score would be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates would be necessary to account for changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the implementation of new treatment protocols.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of resources, a platform like CartoChrome maps could be invaluable. CartoChrome maps can be used to display physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points on an interactive map, providing a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape. This allows for easy identification of areas with high and low access to care, highlighting potential disparities and informing strategic planning efforts.