28640, Jefferson, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28640, Jefferson, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.50 percent of the residents in 28640 has some form of health insurance. 41.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.87 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 28640 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 776 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28640. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,263 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,883 health care providers accessible to residents in 28640, Jefferson, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Jefferson, NC (ZIP Code 28640)**

The assessment of breast cancer care within Jefferson, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 28640 ZIP code, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. These factors collectively determine the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the region, offering insights into the accessibility and quality of care for those facing this diagnosis.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Jefferson is crucial. A low density of PCPs, coupled with a high patient-to-physician ratio, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, negatively impacting the Breast Cancer Score. The presence of a sufficient number of PCPs, readily accessible to the population, is paramount.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A favorable ratio, indicating a higher number of physicians per capita, suggests greater accessibility to care. Conversely, a low ratio can create bottlenecks, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delaying crucial screenings and consultations. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within the 28640 ZIP code is essential to understand the current healthcare landscape. This involves examining the number of practicing physicians, the size of the population, and the availability of appointments.

Standout practices within the region can significantly influence the Breast Cancer Score. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care is vital. This involves evaluating factors such as the use of advanced diagnostic technologies (e.g., 3D mammography), the availability of specialized breast cancer surgeons and oncologists, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and offer comprehensive support services, including genetic counseling and survivorship programs, should be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Jefferson. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable. Assessing the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine for breast cancer-related care is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and access to online educational resources. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care and enhance patient convenience, thereby positively impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their breast cancer care programs demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of readily accessible mental health resources contributes to improved patient outcomes and enhances the overall Breast Cancer Score.

To ascertain the Breast Cancer Score for Jefferson, a thorough investigation of the aforementioned factors is necessary. This includes gathering data on the number of PCPs, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Analyzing this data will provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of breast cancer care within the 28640 ZIP code.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Jefferson requires a detailed examination of the healthcare infrastructure. This involves identifying the number of primary care clinics, the types of services offered, and the insurance plans accepted. Assessing the accessibility of these clinics, including their operating hours, appointment availability, and transportation options, is also essential. The availability of primary care directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it determines the ease with which patients can access screenings, referrals, and ongoing care.

Standout practices in the region should be highlighted for their exemplary care. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to innovation, patient-centered care, and positive outcomes. Identifying these practices and understanding their best practices can provide valuable insights for improving breast cancer care throughout the region. This may involve recognizing practices that offer specialized services, such as genetic testing or advanced surgical techniques.

The integration of telemedicine into breast cancer care can significantly improve access and convenience. Assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources is crucial. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide patients with greater flexibility and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. The adoption of telemedicine can positively impact the Breast Cancer Score by enhancing access to care and improving patient satisfaction.

Mental health support is an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. Assessing the availability of counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services is critical. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care programs demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. The presence of readily accessible mental health resources can improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall Breast Cancer Score.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular evaluations and updates are necessary to ensure that the score accurately reflects the current state of breast cancer care in Jefferson. By continuously monitoring the factors discussed above, healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients can work together to improve the quality and accessibility of care.

The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive treatment, and compassionate support for all individuals affected by breast cancer.

Would you like to visualize the healthcare landscape of Jefferson, NC (ZIP Code 28640) and explore the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care physicians and specialized breast cancer services? CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing you to identify areas with high or low access to care and make informed decisions.