28655, Morganton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28655, Morganton, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.41 percent of the residents in 28655 has some form of health insurance. 42.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.94 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 28655 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,949 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28655. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 10,766 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,324 health care providers accessible to residents in 28655, Morganton, North Carolina.

Breast cancer care accessibility and quality are paramount concerns, especially in rural areas where resources can be stretched thin. This analysis focuses on the landscape of breast cancer support within ZIP code 28655 (Morganton, North Carolina) and the broader primary care environment in Morganton, aiming to provide a nuanced "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score will consider various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a foundational metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to appointment delays, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. In Morganton, the specific ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. Analyzing data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the American Medical Association, and local hospital systems like UNC Health Blue Ridge, we can determine the current PCP-to-patient ratio. This information is then compared to state and national averages to gauge Morganton's relative standing. A lower-than-average ratio would negatively impact the Breast Cancer Score, signaling potential challenges in timely access to care. Furthermore, the ratio of oncologists and breast surgeons to the population within a reasonable driving distance (e.g., 30-60 minutes) is also considered.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in breast cancer care, significantly elevate the Breast Cancer Score. This involves identifying clinics and hospitals within and around Morganton that offer comprehensive services. This includes accredited breast centers (e.g., those accredited by the American College of Radiology), facilities with advanced imaging capabilities (e.g., 3D mammography, MRI), and multidisciplinary teams comprising surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and oncology nurses. We need to identify specific practices, like UNC Health Blue Ridge facilities, and assess their service offerings. The availability of patient navigators, who guide patients through the complex healthcare system, is another positive indicator. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research also contribute positively to the score, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. The Breast Cancer Score reflects the extent to which healthcare providers in Morganton utilize telemedicine. This involves assessing the availability of virtual consultations for primary care, oncology, and supportive services like genetic counseling and mental health support. Practices that offer telemedicine options, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations, receive a higher score. The ease of use of the telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan are also considered.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The Breast Cancer Score assesses the availability and accessibility of mental health services specifically tailored to cancer patients in Morganton. This includes the presence of oncology-specific therapists, support groups, and mental health professionals integrated into the care team. The availability of these resources within the local hospitals, clinics, and community organizations is evaluated. The score also reflects the ease with which patients can access these services, including the availability of appointments and the acceptance of various insurance plans.

The integration of these factors creates a holistic "Breast Cancer Score" for Morganton. A higher score indicates a more robust and accessible healthcare environment for breast cancer patients, while a lower score highlights areas where improvements are needed. The overall score is not a single number but a composite picture reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The analysis reveals that Morganton, like many rural areas, likely faces challenges in physician-to-patient ratios, particularly for specialists. While UNC Health Blue Ridge provides significant services, the availability of specialized care may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Telemedicine adoption, while present, may not be as widespread as in more urban settings. Mental health resources, while available, may require more integration with oncology services.

Based on this preliminary analysis, the Breast Cancer Score for Morganton (ZIP code 28655) is likely moderate. While UNC Health Blue Ridge offers a solid foundation, the score is potentially impacted by physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and the need for greater integration of mental health services. Further investigation is needed to provide a more definitive score.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Morganton, including the locations of healthcare providers, the availability of specific services, and the demographics of the patient population, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a visual representation of this data, enabling you to identify areas with high concentrations of healthcare resources and areas where access may be limited. They can also provide valuable insights into the spatial distribution of healthcare services, helping to identify potential gaps in care and opportunities for improvement.