28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.12 percent of the residents in 28636 has some form of health insurance. 43.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.55 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 28636 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 757 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28636. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,001 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,731 health care providers accessible to residents in 28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina.

This analysis examines breast cancer care quality within ZIP code 28636, focusing on Hiddenite, North Carolina, and the availability of primary care resources. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the healthcare landscape, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. This assessment is not a definitive ranking but rather an overview of the current state of affairs, highlighting areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of quality breast cancer care rests on the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians. In Hiddenite, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to primary care, allowing for proactive preventative measures and early detection. Researching the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 28636 is the first step. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the U.S. Census Bureau can provide valuable insights.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians matters. Are the physicians clustered in a single practice, or are they spread across multiple locations within the ZIP code? The presence of multiple practices increases patient choice and reduces the risk of a single point of failure in the healthcare system. Furthermore, the types of primary care physicians available are relevant. Do they include family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and perhaps even specialists in women's health? A diverse pool of primary care providers can cater to a wider range of patient needs and preferences.

Identifying standout practices within Hiddenite is crucial. What are the characteristics that set them apart? Do they offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day sick visits? These factors significantly impact patient convenience and access. Do they have a strong emphasis on preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings and patient education? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, facilitating communication and care coordination among different healthcare providers? These are key indicators of a patient-centered practice.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or initial consultations, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Hiddenite. Does the primary care infrastructure in 28636 support telemedicine? Are physicians equipped with the necessary technology and training to conduct virtual visits? Do they offer online patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling? The presence of telemedicine capabilities can be a game-changer for patients, reducing travel time and improving overall convenience.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support within the primary care setting or through referrals to specialists is paramount. Do primary care physicians in Hiddenite screen patients for mental health issues? Do they have established referral pathways to therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a sign of a comprehensive and patient-centered approach.

The quality of breast cancer care extends beyond primary care. Access to specialized services, such as mammography, radiology, surgical oncology, and medical oncology, is also vital. Are these services readily available within the ZIP code or nearby? The proximity of these specialists impacts patient convenience and the speed of diagnosis and treatment. The availability of support groups and patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, is also a valuable asset.

Furthermore, consider the quality of the facilities themselves. Are the primary care practices and any associated specialty clinics modern and well-equipped? Do they have comfortable waiting areas and private examination rooms? Are they accessible to patients with disabilities? The physical environment can significantly impact the patient experience and overall satisfaction.

Assessing the patient experience is another crucial aspect. What is the average wait time for appointments? How responsive are the physicians and staff to patient inquiries? Do patients feel heard and respected? Gathering patient feedback through surveys or online reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

When evaluating breast cancer care in Hiddenite, it is also essential to consider the local community and its demographics. Are there any specific health disparities that need to be addressed? Are there programs in place to reach underserved populations and ensure equitable access to care? Understanding the unique needs of the community can help tailor healthcare services to meet those needs effectively.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in Hiddenite, NC (28636), requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates examining the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. It also requires assessing the availability of specialized services, the quality of facilities, the patient experience, and the local community's demographics. By considering these factors, patients can make more informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in the system.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in 28636 and surrounding areas, including the distribution of physicians, the location of specialized services, and other relevant data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare resources available, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment and aiding in informed decision-making.