28637, Hildebran, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28637, Hildebran, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.97 percent of the residents in 28637 has some form of health insurance. 42.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.15 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 28637 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 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28637. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 361 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,146 health care providers accessible to residents in 28637, Hildebran, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Hildebran, NC (ZIP Code 28637)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care availability and quality within ZIP code 28637 (Hildebran, North Carolina), focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, offering insights into the community's preparedness for breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This score will be a qualitative evaluation based on the factors discussed, rather than a numerical ranking.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are critical. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Hildebran is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally signifies better access. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to determine this ratio. However, it is important to acknowledge that this is a snapshot and does not account for physician specialization (e.g., family medicine versus internal medicine) or patient demographics.

Hildebran, as a smaller community, may present challenges in terms of PCP availability. The proximity to larger towns like Hickory, NC, might offer some relief, as residents could potentially access primary care in those areas. However, this necessitates transportation, which can be a barrier for some, particularly the elderly or those with limited mobility. The analysis will consider the geographic distribution of PCPs, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the presence of board-certified physicians, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that actively promote breast cancer screening guidelines, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams, are highly valued. Furthermore, practices that collaborate with specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care.

The analysis will explore the presence of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability. EHRs facilitate communication between different healthcare providers, improving care coordination. Practices that utilize patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records and communicate with their providers, are also considered favorably. The availability of multilingual services, catering to the diverse needs of the community, will be assessed.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. The analysis will assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Hildebran. This includes the availability of virtual consultations for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and consultations regarding breast cancer concerns.

The benefits of telemedicine include reduced travel time, increased convenience, and the ability to connect with specialists located further away. However, the analysis will also consider the challenges associated with telemedicine, such as technological barriers, insurance coverage, and the digital divide. The availability of reliable internet access and the patient's comfort level with technology are crucial factors in the successful implementation of telemedicine.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on mental health. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, in the Hildebran area.

The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is particularly important. This can involve on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers. The analysis will assess whether primary care physicians screen patients for mental health concerns and provide referrals to appropriate resources. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, will also be considered.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the above factors, a qualitative “Breast Cancer Score” will be assigned to Hildebran. This score will reflect the community's overall preparedness for breast cancer care. The score will not be a numerical value but rather a descriptive assessment of the strengths and weaknesses identified in the analysis.

A high score would indicate excellent access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with a focus on breast cancer screening and early detection, significant telemedicine adoption, and robust integration of mental health resources. A lower score would reflect challenges in these areas, such as limited access to primary care, a shortage of specialists, limited telemedicine options, and a lack of mental health support.

**Conclusion:**

This analysis provides a critical overview of breast cancer care in Hildebran, NC. Understanding the local landscape is essential for improving healthcare access and outcomes. The “Breast Cancer Score” assessment will help identify areas for improvement and inform community-based initiatives.

**Call to Action:**

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