28670, Ronda, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28670, Ronda, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.83 percent of the residents in 28670 has some form of health insurance. 36.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.95 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 28670 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 698 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28670. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 492 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,072 health care providers accessible to residents in 28670, Ronda, North Carolina.

The analysis below offers an assessment of breast cancer care resources and primary care access within ZIP code 28670, encompassing Ronda, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas. This evaluation considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer care landscape.

Ronda, a small community in Wilkes County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area often translates to limited access to specialized medical care, including oncology and related services. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric in this context. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and local health departments would be essential to determine the precise ratio within the specified ZIP code. However, given the rural setting, it is reasonable to anticipate a ratio that may be less favorable compared to more urbanized areas.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Ronda is equally significant. PCPs serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing essential preventative care, including breast cancer screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams. The number of PCPs and their capacity to accommodate new patients directly impacts access to these vital services. Furthermore, the proximity of primary care practices to residents is a factor. Longer travel times can present a barrier to accessing care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those lacking reliable transportation. The presence of a robust primary care network is the cornerstone of early detection and successful treatment outcomes.

Identifying standout medical practices in the area requires an in-depth investigation. This would involve reviewing patient testimonials, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating the integration of technology. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, and offer coordinated care with specialists would be considered highly desirable. The presence of a dedicated breast health clinic, even if located outside the immediate ZIP code but accessible to residents, would significantly enhance the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in evaluating healthcare access. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its ability to overcome geographical barriers and provide access to specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, is invaluable. The availability of telemedicine consultations for breast cancer-related concerns, including follow-up appointments, second opinions, and support group meetings, would positively influence the assessment. Assessing the availability of telemedicine platforms, the technical infrastructure to support them, and the willingness of local physicians to adopt these technologies is essential.

The integration of mental health resources is a vital 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. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology-related issues is crucial. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community. Practices that proactively screen patients for mental health concerns and offer referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care.

The overall score for breast cancer care in ZIP code 28670 would be a composite of these factors. The presence of a high physician-to-patient ratio and limited primary care access would negatively impact the score. The existence of standout practices with comprehensive screening programs, the adoption of telemedicine for oncology-related consultations, and the integration of mental health resources would significantly improve the score. The score would be dynamic and subject to change as healthcare services evolve.

To further enhance the understanding of healthcare access in this region, it is essential to analyze the demographics of the population. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and insurance coverage can significantly influence access to care. Understanding the specific needs of the population can help healthcare providers tailor their services to better meet those needs.

The assessment of breast cancer care in Ronda also requires consideration of the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the availability of hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, and specialized cancer treatment facilities in the surrounding areas. The proximity and accessibility of these facilities are critical for patients requiring advanced care.

The ongoing evolution of healthcare technology also plays a role. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and communication between providers. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnostic imaging can improve accuracy and speed up the diagnosis process.

The analysis of breast cancer care in ZIP code 28670 is complex and multifaceted. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape, including the availability of resources, the adoption of technology, and the specific needs of the population. While this overview provides a general assessment, a more detailed investigation would be necessary to provide a definitive score.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Ronda and its surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing geographic data and can help identify areas with limited access to care.