28711, Black Mountain, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28711, Black Mountain, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.43 percent of the residents in 28711 has some form of health insurance. 44.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.55 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 28711 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28711. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,279 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,335 health care providers accessible to residents in 28711, Black Mountain, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Black Mountain, NC (ZIP Code 28711)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care availability and quality for residents of Black Mountain, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28711). It focuses on the key factors influencing patient outcomes, including physician access, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health support, ultimately assigning a “Breast Cancer Score” based on the available data and observations. Due to the limitations of publicly available information and the need for patient privacy, this score should be considered an estimate, and further investigation with individual providers is always recommended.

**Physician Access and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is timely access to qualified medical professionals. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios within ZIP Code 28711 is crucial. While precise figures are difficult to obtain publicly, we can estimate based on county-level data and the concentration of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists. Buncombe County, where Black Mountain is located, has a moderate population density. The availability of PCPs is a critical first step, as they often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or needing preventative screenings. A higher PCP-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access to care.

Specialist availability, particularly oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, is equally important. Residents may need to travel to Asheville, the county seat, for specialized services. The distance and travel time to these specialists influence the overall accessibility score. Analyzing the concentration of these specialists within a reasonable radius of Black Mountain is essential. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center or a multidisciplinary team within the Asheville area would significantly improve the score.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. The accreditation status of local hospitals and clinics is a key indicator. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care. This accreditation often reflects a commitment to multidisciplinary care, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other healthcare professionals working together to provide comprehensive treatment.

Reviewing patient satisfaction scores and online reviews provides valuable insights into the patient experience. While subjective, these reviews can highlight strengths and weaknesses in communication, empathy, and overall care quality. Analyzing the range of treatment options available, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies, is also critical. The availability of clinical trials and participation in research programs would further enhance the score, indicating a commitment to advancing breast cancer treatment.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Technological Integration**

The integration of telemedicine into breast cancer care has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by local practices is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to receive a higher score, as they demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The use of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI, is also a significant factor. These technologies can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and detection of early-stage cancers. Practices that utilize these advanced technologies will receive a higher score. Furthermore, the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share patient information seamlessly between different providers are essential for coordinated care.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Therefore, access to mental health resources and supportive care is crucial. Assessing the availability of oncology social workers, therapists, and support groups is essential. Practices that offer these services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will receive a higher score.

The availability of patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, is also important. Patient navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance. The availability of resources such as nutrition counseling, physical therapy, and survivorship programs further enhances the score, indicating a commitment to holistic patient care.

**Breast Cancer Score – An Estimate**

Based on the factors discussed, the estimated “Breast Cancer Score” for Black Mountain (ZIP Code 28711) is moderate. The proximity to Asheville provides access to specialized care, but the rural nature of the area may present challenges in terms of physician access and telemedicine adoption. The availability of mental health resources and supportive care is likely to be a key differentiator between practices. Further investigation is needed to assess the specific practices and their commitment to providing comprehensive breast cancer care.

**Call to Action**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Black Mountain and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital facilities, and patient demographics, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's data visualization tools can help you identify areas with limited access to care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.