28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.93 percent of the residents in 28663 has some form of health insurance. 46.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.13 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 28663 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 112 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28663. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 220 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 244 health care providers accessible to residents in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Piney Creek (ZIP Code 28663)

Analyzing healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer care, within the Piney Creek ZIP code (28663) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis evaluates the available medical resources, considering factors like physician density, the presence of specialized care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial for comprehensive breast cancer management. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify potential areas for improvement.

The cornerstone of any effective breast cancer care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). They serve as the initial point of contact, responsible for screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. In Piney Creek, assessing PCP availability involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board, alongside information from healthcare directories, can help determine this ratio. It is essential to go beyond simple numbers. The age and experience of the physicians, their acceptance of new patients, and their integration into a broader healthcare network are also important factors.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized breast cancer care is paramount. This includes access to oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and support staff. The presence of a dedicated cancer center within a reasonable distance significantly improves the quality of care. This center should offer comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), biopsy procedures, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. Proximity to such facilities, or the lack thereof, impacts the overall breast cancer score. Travel time, transportation options, and the availability of patient navigation services are critical considerations, especially for residents in rural areas like Piney Creek.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, particularly in rural communities. Its ability to bridge geographical barriers and provide access to specialists is invaluable. The availability of telemedicine consultations for breast cancer patients, including virtual appointments with oncologists, radiologists, and therapists, can significantly improve access to care. An analysis should evaluate the telemedicine infrastructure in place, including the availability of high-speed internet access, the adoption of telehealth platforms by local practices, and the willingness of physicians to utilize these technologies.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for providing comprehensive care. This analysis should assess the presence of mental health professionals in the area, their specialization in oncology-related issues, and the accessibility of support groups and other mental health resources.

The integration of these elements into a cohesive healthcare system is crucial. This involves effective communication and collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health providers. The existence of care coordination programs, which help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, can greatly improve outcomes. Assessing the level of integration and coordination within the Piney Creek healthcare system is a key factor in determining the breast cancer score.

Identifying standout practices is an important aspect of this analysis. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care, through factors like early adoption of new technologies, a patient-centered approach, and a strong focus on prevention and education, should be highlighted. These practices can serve as models for others and contribute to a higher overall breast cancer score for the community.

The analysis of the Piney Creek healthcare landscape is not a static exercise. It requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. The availability of resources and the quality of care can change over time. Regular updates are essential to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the breast cancer score. This includes monitoring changes in physician staffing, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of mental health services.

The analysis must also consider the unique challenges faced by the population of Piney Creek. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural beliefs can influence healthcare access and outcomes. Addressing these challenges requires a tailored approach that considers the specific needs of the community.

The final breast cancer score for Piney Creek would be a composite measure based on the weighted evaluation of all the factors discussed above. The weighting of each factor would depend on its relative importance in determining the quality of breast cancer care. The score would provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Piney Creek, especially regarding breast cancer care, is complex. It requires a comprehensive approach that considers the availability of physicians, specialists, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the integration of these elements into a cohesive healthcare system. The analysis needs to consider the specific needs of the community and the challenges faced by its residents.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Piney Creek, including the location of physicians, cancer centers, and other relevant resources, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare infrastructure, allowing you to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the community.