28666, Icard, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28666, Icard, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28666 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.89 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 28666 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28666. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 60 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,901 health care providers accessible to residents in 28666, Icard, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28666 and Icard Primary Care

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care access and related resources within ZIP code 28666, with a specific focus on primary care availability in the Icard community. The goal is to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this region, highlighting key factors that impact a patient's journey from screening to survivorship. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Icard, a small community within the 28666 ZIP code, requires a dedicated examination of its primary care resources. Assessing the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita is the first step. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed appointments, limited preventative care, and ultimately, later-stage diagnoses. Data from local health departments, the North Carolina Medical Board, and insurance provider networks will be crucial to determine the precise ratio. Furthermore, the types of PCPs available – family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners – need to be identified. The availability of female physicians is also an important consideration, as some patients may prefer a female doctor for sensitive health concerns.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adherence to breast cancer screening guidelines (mammograms, clinical breast exams). Practices should be assessed on their commitment to preventative care, including patient education about risk factors, self-exams, and lifestyle modifications. This can be measured through patient surveys, practice audits, and reviews from patient advocacy groups.

Within ZIP code 28666, identifying standout practices that excel in breast cancer-related care is crucial. These practices should demonstrate a patient-centered approach, integrating all aspects of care. This includes providing comprehensive screening services, rapid referrals to specialists (radiologists, oncologists, surgeons), and robust patient navigation programs. Patient navigation is particularly important, as it helps guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, providing support and resources throughout their treatment journey.

Telemedicine adoption is an increasingly important factor in healthcare accessibility, especially in rural areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial screenings can significantly improve access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing secure and user-friendly platforms, should be recognized. The availability of telehealth services, particularly for patients in Icard who may face transportation challenges, is a critical component of this evaluation.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices should be assessed on their integration of mental health services. This includes offering on-site counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, and support groups. The availability of these resources, particularly for patients in Icard, is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to holistic care.

The analysis should also consider the proximity to specialized cancer centers and hospitals. Access to comprehensive cancer centers, with multidisciplinary teams of specialists, is essential for optimal treatment outcomes. The distance to these centers, and the availability of transportation options for patients in Icard, should be carefully evaluated.

Furthermore, the analysis should assess the availability of financial assistance programs and resources for patients. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can create significant stress. Practices that provide information about financial assistance programs, offer payment plans, and connect patients with resources to navigate insurance coverage are demonstrating a commitment to patient well-being.

The impact of social determinants of health should also be considered. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and housing stability can significantly impact a patient's health outcomes. The analysis should identify any disparities in care and highlight practices that are working to address these issues.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" for the 28666 ZIP code and Icard primary care availability should be a composite score, reflecting the factors discussed above. This score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, allowing patients to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The score should be accompanied by specific recommendations for improvement, focusing on areas where the healthcare ecosystem can be strengthened.

This analysis is not simply a ranking exercise; it is a call to action. It is an opportunity to identify gaps in care, promote best practices, and advocate for improved access to breast cancer resources for all residents of the 28666 ZIP code, especially those in Icard. The ultimate goal is to empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive the best possible care.

The complexity of this analysis, incorporating geographic data, physician data, and patient outcomes, can be effectively visualized and understood through the use of advanced mapping tools. For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the 28666 ZIP code and the primary care availability in Icard, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping capabilities that can bring this data to life, providing valuable insights and supporting data-driven decision-making.