28708, Balsam Grove, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28708, Balsam Grove, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 41.07 percent of the residents in 28708 has some form of health insurance. 41.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.24 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 28708 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28708. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 34 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,277 health care providers accessible to residents in 28708, Balsam Grove, North Carolina.

Breast cancer is a significant health concern, and access to quality care is paramount. This analysis delves into the availability of breast cancer care resources within ZIP code 28708, focusing on Balsam Grove, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas. We’ll assess the landscape of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, aiming to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare ecosystem for individuals in this region.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care often rests on the availability of strong primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, offering crucial preventative screenings, early detection efforts, and referrals to specialists. Assessing primary care availability in Balsam Grove is crucial. This involves evaluating the number of PCPs practicing within the area, the types of practices (e.g., solo, group, hospital-affiliated), and the acceptance of new patients. A limited number of PCPs or practices that are consistently at capacity can create barriers to timely care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to care. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in 28708, specifically focusing on PCPs and, ideally, including specialists involved in breast cancer care (e.g., oncologists, radiologists), provides a valuable insight into the accessibility of medical services. A low ratio might suggest a potential strain on the healthcare system, while a higher ratio could indicate greater availability.

Identifying standout practices is essential. This involves evaluating practices based on several factors. These include the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment (e.g., mammography, ultrasound), the range of services offered (e.g., biopsy capabilities, chemotherapy administration), and patient satisfaction ratings. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in these areas should be recognized as leaders in providing high-quality breast cancer care. Researching local hospitals and clinics to determine their breast cancer screening and treatment programs is key.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers a convenient way for patients to access care, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by practices in 28708 is important. Practices that offer telemedicine options can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens for patients, and enhance the overall patient experience. This is particularly relevant for individuals in Balsam Grove, where geographic limitations might affect access to healthcare.

Mental health resources are often an overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is therefore essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their breast cancer care programs demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This includes identifying local therapists and counselors who specialize in oncology or cancer-related issues.

Evaluating the availability of these resources requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes conducting online research, reviewing practice websites, contacting local healthcare providers, and consulting with patient advocacy groups. Data from sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Cancer Society can provide valuable insights into breast cancer incidence rates and screening recommendations.

The specific findings for 28708 and Balsam Grove would depend on this research. We can anticipate some potential scenarios. The area might have a sufficient number of PCPs, with acceptable physician-to-patient ratios. However, the availability of specialized breast cancer services, such as oncologists or radiation therapists, might be limited, requiring patients to travel to larger cities for treatment. Telemedicine adoption might be moderate, offering some options for virtual consultations but not fully integrated into all practices. Mental health resources could be available, but access might be limited due to a shortage of mental health professionals in the area.

Alternatively, the area might face challenges. A shortage of PCPs could lead to long wait times and difficulty in securing appointments. The lack of specialized breast cancer services could force patients to travel significant distances, increasing their stress and financial burden. Telemedicine adoption could be minimal, further limiting access to care. Mental health resources might be scarce, leaving patients without adequate support during a difficult time.

The analysis would also consider the presence of any standout practices. These could be identified through patient reviews, physician recommendations, or awards. These practices would be highlighted for their commitment to providing high-quality breast cancer care, including early detection, comprehensive treatment options, and patient-centered services. The practices could also be recognized for their integration of telemedicine and mental health resources.

To gain a more complete picture, the analysis would also consider demographic factors, such as the age and socioeconomic status of the population in 28708. These factors can influence access to care and the types of services that are most needed. For example, a higher proportion of elderly residents might increase the demand for screening and preventative services.

The conclusion of this analysis would summarize the key findings. It would identify the strengths and weaknesses of the breast cancer care landscape in 28708 and Balsam Grove. It would provide recommendations for improving access to care, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding the availability of specialized services, promoting telemedicine adoption, and enhancing mental health resources.

This analysis underscores the complexity of assessing healthcare access. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, including the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. By conducting this type of analysis, we can identify areas where improvements are needed and work towards ensuring that all individuals in 28708 and Balsam Grove have access to high-quality breast cancer care.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, identify underserved areas, and optimize resource allocation, explore the power of mapping. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to see the locations of physicians, hospitals, and other resources in relation to population density and other relevant factors.