The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28644, Laurel Springs, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 83.04 percent of the residents in 28644 has some form of health insurance. 42.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.22 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 28644 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 125 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28644. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 432 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 729 health care providers accessible to residents in 28644, Laurel Springs, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28644, Laurel Springs, North Carolina
Breast Cancer Score | 32 |
---|---|
People Score | 54 |
Provider Score | 22 |
Hospital Score | 41 |
Travel Score | 49 |
28644 | Laurel Springs | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Laurel Springs, NC (ZIP Code 28644)
Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Laurel Springs, North Carolina (ZIP code 28644) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure concerning breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. In Laurel Springs, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. A low PCP-to-population ratio can create significant barriers to early detection and preventative care. Patients may experience longer wait times for appointments, making routine screenings like mammograms less timely. Furthermore, a shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed referrals to specialists, impacting the overall prognosis for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. The availability of evening and weekend appointments, as well as same-day sick visits, also contributes to the accessibility of primary care, particularly for working individuals and those with limited transportation options.
Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in Laurel Springs requires access to detailed demographic data and physician licensing information. However, based on publicly available resources, the area is likely considered rural, and this suggests a potential shortage of physicians. This scarcity can be exacerbated by factors such as the age of the physician population and the ability to attract and retain new medical professionals. The presence of larger medical groups or hospital affiliations in the surrounding areas could improve access, as these entities often have the resources to recruit and support a broader range of specialists.
Identifying "standout practices" within the Laurel Springs area involves evaluating several criteria. These include the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the integration of innovative technologies. Practices that prioritize preventative care, such as offering comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, are particularly valuable. The presence of certified mammography facilities, ideally with 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is a crucial indicator of quality. Patient reviews and testimonials provide insights into the patient experience, including the physician's bedside manner, communication skills, and the overall efficiency of the practice. Practices that are affiliated with larger healthcare systems often have access to a wider range of resources and specialists, which can benefit patients.
Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve breast cancer care in rural areas like Laurel Springs. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to expertise. This is particularly important for accessing oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists who may not be readily available locally. The availability of virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support can greatly enhance patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. The success of telemedicine depends on factors such as internet access, digital literacy among patients and providers, and the willingness of physicians to embrace this technology.
The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. Therefore, access to mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology-related issues is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals ensures that patients receive coordinated and comprehensive support throughout their journey. The availability of resources such as support groups, educational materials, and financial assistance programs can also alleviate some of the burdens associated with breast cancer treatment.
Evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" for Laurel Springs requires synthesizing all these factors. A high score would indicate readily available primary care, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of high-quality practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health resources. A lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive breast cancer care. The final score should reflect the overall strength of the healthcare infrastructure and its ability to meet the needs of individuals at risk for or diagnosed with breast cancer.
In conclusion, while this analysis provides a general overview, a more detailed assessment would require specific data on physician numbers, practice quality metrics, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health resource availability within ZIP code 28644. The information presented here serves as a starting point for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in Laurel Springs and highlights the areas that require further investigation and improvement.
To gain a more visual and geographically informed perspective of the healthcare resources in Laurel Springs and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the location of medical facilities, physician distribution, and other relevant data points, allowing you to visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like