28690, Valdese, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28690, Valdese, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.76 percent of the residents in 28690 has some form of health insurance. 41.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.26 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 28690 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,712 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28690. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,325 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,375 health care providers accessible to residents in 28690, Valdese, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Valdese, NC (ZIP Code 28690)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Valdese, North Carolina (ZIP code 28690) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the availability and quality of primary care, the accessibility of specialists, the integration of technology, and the presence of supportive resources. This analysis aims to provide a “Breast Cancer Score” perspective, considering these factors to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon accessible and high-quality primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, responsible for screening, early detection, and referral. Evaluating primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio within Valdese. While precise figures fluctuate, a low ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative services. A high ratio, conversely, suggests greater ease of access. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, alongside information from local hospitals and clinics, can help determine this ratio.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care is crucial. This includes assessing the PCPs' knowledge of breast cancer screening guidelines, their utilization of evidence-based practices, and their ability to effectively communicate with patients about their concerns. Patient reviews, hospital quality reports, and the presence of board-certified physicians are indicators of quality. The presence of dedicated women's health specialists within primary care practices is also a positive sign, potentially streamlining care and enhancing patient experience.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialists is paramount. This includes access to radiologists for mammograms and other imaging, surgeons for biopsies and treatment, and oncologists for cancer treatment and management. The proximity of these specialists to Valdese is a critical factor. Residents may need to travel to larger cities like Hickory or Morganton for specialized care. This travel time can impact the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment, potentially affecting outcomes. Examining the network of specialists affiliated with local hospitals and clinics is essential to understanding the referral pathways available to patients.

Standout practices within the Valdese area deserve specific recognition. These practices may demonstrate excellence in specific areas, such as patient education, support services, or the utilization of advanced technologies. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into their practices, patient feedback, and the types of services they offer. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, offer educational seminars, or have dedicated breast cancer navigators are examples of those who are committed to providing comprehensive care.

The adoption of telemedicine is becoming increasingly important in healthcare. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, receive remote monitoring, and access educational resources online can significantly improve the convenience and accessibility of care. Assessing the extent to which local healthcare providers have embraced telemedicine is a key element of this analysis. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote patient monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into the overall care process.

Mental health resources are a critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health support is essential for patients' well-being. This includes assessing the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups within the Valdese area. The presence of mental health professionals within the local healthcare system, as well as partnerships with community organizations, is a positive indicator. The availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors is also a valuable resource.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Valdese, NC, would be a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed above. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the accessibility of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This score would offer a snapshot of the overall breast cancer care landscape in the area, allowing for comparisons over time and across different regions.

The analysis also needs to consider the specific needs of the Valdese population. This includes understanding the demographic makeup of the community, including the prevalence of risk factors for breast cancer, such as age, race, and family history. Tailoring healthcare services to the specific needs of the population is essential to ensure equitable access to care and improve health outcomes.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Valdese, NC, is a dynamic process. The availability of healthcare resources and the quality of care can change over time. Regularly updating this analysis is essential to ensure that it reflects the current state of the healthcare system. This requires ongoing monitoring of key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of support services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a numerical value. It is a tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. It can be used to identify areas for improvement, such as increasing access to specialists, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing mental health support. This information can be used by healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to improve the quality of care and outcomes for breast cancer patients in Valdese.

For a more detailed and visually engaging understanding of the healthcare landscape in Valdese, NC, and to explore the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the community, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing you to identify patterns, visualize access to care, and gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem.