28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.33 percent of the residents in 28668 has some form of health insurance. 37.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 97.78 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 28668 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 16 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28668. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 39 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 941 health care providers accessible to residents in 28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Roaring Gap, NC (ZIP Code 28668)

Analyzing the breast cancer landscape within Roaring Gap, North Carolina (ZIP code 28668) requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing the availability and quality of primary care, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, and the integration of supportive resources. This analysis will delve into the specific factors influencing the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon robust primary care. In Roaring Gap, primary care access is a crucial element. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying early detection and diagnosis. Conversely, a higher ratio generally indicates greater accessibility. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 28668 is paramount. This involves identifying the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the zip code and comparing it to the estimated population. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and state medical boards can be utilized for this purpose.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are essential. Does the area have a high number of primary care physicians? Do they accept various insurance plans? Are they accepting new patients? Are extended hours or weekend appointments available? Are there any practices that stand out for their patient-centered approach, focusing on preventive care and early screening? These factors contribute significantly to the overall score.

Early detection is paramount in breast cancer treatment. The availability of mammography services within or near Roaring Gap is critical. Proximity to a facility equipped with state-of-the-art mammography technology, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is a significant advantage. The frequency of mammography screenings, as recommended by medical guidelines, should be readily accessible. The presence of a dedicated breast imaging center, rather than a general radiology department, often signifies a higher level of expertise and specialization. Investigating the turnaround time for mammogram results is also important. Faster results can alleviate patient anxiety and facilitate quicker treatment decisions.

The presence of specialized breast cancer services, such as surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology, directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. Does the area have access to these specialists? Are they affiliated with reputable hospitals or cancer centers? The proximity to these specialized services is a crucial factor. Patients often require a multidisciplinary approach, involving multiple specialists working collaboratively. A well-coordinated care team improves outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. Remote consultations and follow-up appointments can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Does the primary care physicians or specialists in the area offer telemedicine options? This can be particularly beneficial for consultations, medication management, and supportive care. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists located outside the immediate geographical area.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but vital component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial. Are there mental health professionals within Roaring Gap or nearby communities who specialize in cancer-related issues? Are support groups available, either in-person or online? Access to these resources can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and contribute to better treatment outcomes.

The integration of patient navigation services can also enhance the Breast Cancer Score. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, providing support and guidance throughout the treatment process. Do any of the healthcare providers in the area offer patient navigation services? This can help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and insurance coverage, ultimately reducing stress and improving their experience.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Roaring Gap is a composite of all these factors. A high score indicates a healthcare ecosystem that is well-equipped to provide comprehensive, high-quality breast cancer care, from early detection to treatment and supportive services. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, improving access to specialized services, and expanding mental health resources.

Evaluating the quality of care requires a deeper dive. Analyzing patient satisfaction surveys, physician ratings, and hospital quality metrics can provide valuable insights. Researching the outcomes of breast cancer treatment in the area, such as survival rates and recurrence rates, can also provide a more comprehensive picture. This information can be gathered from public health agencies, hospitals, and medical organizations.

The specific practices and hospitals in the area should be assessed individually. Some practices may stand out for their commitment to patient care, their use of advanced technology, or their integration of supportive services. Identifying these "standout practices" can help patients make informed decisions about their care.

The impact of Roaring Gap's location on healthcare access needs consideration. Its proximity to larger cities with more comprehensive medical facilities is a factor. While the local healthcare infrastructure is important, patients may also rely on services located outside of the immediate area. The ease of travel to these facilities is also a factor.

The Breast Cancer Score is a dynamic metric. Healthcare is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and approaches to patient care emerging. Regular reassessment of the factors discussed above is necessary to ensure that the score accurately reflects the current state of breast cancer care in Roaring Gap. This ongoing evaluation can help identify areas for improvement and guide efforts to enhance the quality of care for patients.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Roaring Gap, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a spatial understanding of healthcare access and availability.