28675, Sparta, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28675, Sparta, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.17 percent of the residents in 28675 has some form of health insurance. 51.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.55 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 28675 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,109 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28675. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,669 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 221 health care providers accessible to residents in 28675, Sparta, North Carolina.

Sparta, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" for physicians in ZIP code 28675, encompassing Sparta, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in determining the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care. This is not a simple ranking, but rather an in-depth assessment of the current state of healthcare within this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-patient ratios form a foundational element of any healthcare assessment. In Sparta, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of breast cancer care. Early detection and consistent follow-up are paramount, and PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative screenings. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed appointments, potentially impacting the timeliness of diagnoses and treatment. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into the physician supply within the county (Alleghany County, where Sparta is located) and the surrounding areas. This data, however, needs to be interpreted carefully, considering factors such as the age and health status of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the geographic distribution of physicians within the county.

Beyond the raw numbers, the specialties of available physicians are essential. While PCPs are the gatekeepers, the presence of specialists, such as general surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists, is vital for comprehensive breast cancer care. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance significantly impacts the patient experience. Travel time, particularly for those in rural areas, can be a significant barrier to accessing specialized care. The presence of a local hospital or clinic offering these services is a major positive factor.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves evaluating factors such as the accreditation of local hospitals and clinics by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) for cancer programs. Accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care, including multidisciplinary teams, comprehensive treatment plans, and patient support services. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys, while often subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care. Local community organizations and advocacy groups can also offer valuable perspectives on the strengths and weaknesses of local healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas where geographic barriers are prevalent. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing healthcare systems. The availability of reliable internet access in the Sparta area is a crucial prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet essential, aspect of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is vital for providing support and addressing the emotional challenges associated with the disease. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide invaluable peer support and a sense of community. Access to mental health services should be readily available and integrated into the overall care plan.

Evaluating the availability of mental health resources involves assessing the number of mental health professionals in the area, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance coverage, wait times). Collaborations between healthcare providers and mental health professionals are crucial for ensuring seamless care and addressing the holistic needs of patients.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" for physicians in ZIP code 28675 requires a comprehensive analysis that goes beyond simple rankings. It necessitates a deep understanding of physician-to-patient ratios, the specialties available, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment provides a snapshot of the current state of healthcare in Sparta and highlights areas where improvements are needed to ensure that all residents have access to high-quality breast cancer care.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Sparta and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of healthcare access in the area.