28692, Vilas, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28692, Vilas, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.72 percent of the residents in 28692 has some form of health insurance. 35.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.26 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 28692 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 620 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28692. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 846 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 532 health care providers accessible to residents in 28692, Vilas, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28692 & Primary Care in Vilas

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care accessibility and primary care availability within ZIP code 28692, focusing on the town of Vilas, North Carolina. We aim to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering various factors that impact patient outcomes and the overall quality of healthcare. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of crucial mental health resources.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is timely access to primary care. In Vilas, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly influences a patient's ability to receive preventative screenings, early diagnosis, and coordinated treatment. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios is crucial. A high ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Data from state and national sources, such as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), must be consulted to determine the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the Vilas area. This ratio will serve as a foundational element in the overall score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the practices within 28692 based on several criteria. These include the availability of on-site mammography services, a critical factor in early detection. Practices offering this convenience can significantly improve patient compliance with screening recommendations. Furthermore, the score will evaluate the practices' adherence to established breast cancer screening guidelines, such as those from the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. This includes the frequency of screenings, the use of appropriate imaging techniques, and the timely referral of patients to specialists when necessary.

The presence of standout practices within the ZIP code will significantly boost the score. A "standout practice" could be defined as one that demonstrates exceptional patient outcomes, utilizes innovative technologies, or actively engages in community outreach and education related to breast cancer awareness. Identifying these practices requires a review of patient testimonials, peer reviews, and data on clinical outcomes. The existence of a practice specializing in breast health or offering a comprehensive breast cancer program would be a significant advantage.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Vilas. Its impact on the "Breast Cancer Score" is substantial. The availability of telemedicine consultations for primary care visits, follow-up appointments, and specialist consultations can improve access to care, especially for patients who face geographical barriers or mobility challenges. The score will assess the adoption rate of telemedicine within the primary care practices in 28692. Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms for virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and patient education will receive a higher score.

The mental health of breast cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in their overall well-being and recovery. The "Breast Cancer Score" will incorporate an assessment of the availability of mental health resources within the Vilas area. This includes access to licensed therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. The score will evaluate whether primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, either in-person or online, will also be considered.

Furthermore, the score will consider the availability of resources that facilitate patient navigation through the complex healthcare system. This includes the presence of patient navigators or care coordinators who can assist patients with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance. These navigators play a vital role in ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

The analysis will also examine the availability of resources for patients from diverse backgrounds. This includes the availability of culturally sensitive care, language services, and resources tailored to the specific needs of different populations. Addressing health disparities is a crucial aspect of providing equitable access to breast cancer care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of all the factors discussed. The weights assigned to each factor will be based on their relative importance in impacting patient outcomes and access to care. The final score will provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP code 28692 and the primary care availability in Vilas, allowing for a comparative assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system.

The final score will be categorized into a rating system (e.g., excellent, good, fair, poor) to provide a clear and concise assessment of the overall quality of care. This rating can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance access to high-quality breast cancer care in the Vilas area.

Ultimately, this analysis aims to provide actionable insights that can be used to improve the lives of breast cancer patients in Vilas and the surrounding areas. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, the analysis can inform efforts to enhance access to care, improve patient outcomes, and reduce health disparities.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Vilas, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider exploring the power of spatial data. CartoChrome maps can transform complex data into easily understood visualizations, allowing you to see the distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care.