28715, Candler, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28715, Candler, North Carolina is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.47 percent of the residents in 28715 has some form of health insurance. 33.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.35 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 28715 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28715. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,133 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,528 health care providers accessible to residents in 28715, Candler, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Candler, NC (ZIP Code 28715)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 28715, Candler, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the availability of physicians but also the broader healthcare ecosystem's capacity to support patients through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. This analysis, framed as a "Breast Cancer Score," will assess key factors influencing patient outcomes, focusing on primary care access, specialist availability, and supportive resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection, through regular screenings and prompt referrals, is critical. In Candler, assessing primary care availability means examining physician-to-patient ratios. A high ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delay crucial screenings. Data from county health departments and state licensing boards should be consulted to determine the precise ratio. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is important. Are practices clustered in one area, leaving other parts of Candler underserved?

Beyond physician numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices matter. Do practices offer extended hours, including evenings or weekends, to accommodate working individuals? Do they have robust patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling? Are they actively promoting breast cancer screening guidelines, such as mammograms, to their patients? The presence of certified nurse practitioners and physician assistants can also enhance access to care, particularly in areas with physician shortages. A well-resourced primary care system acts as the gateway to specialized breast cancer care.

Specialist availability is another crucial component of our Breast Cancer Score. This encompasses access to oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast procedures, radiologists experienced in interpreting mammograms and other imaging studies, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to Candler residents is a key factor. While some patients may be willing to travel for specialized care, excessive travel distances can create logistical challenges and emotional stress, particularly during treatment. Hospitals and cancer centers within a reasonable radius of 28715 need to be assessed for their comprehensive breast cancer programs.

The quality of these programs is equally important. Do they offer multidisciplinary care, bringing together specialists from various fields to collaborate on patient treatment plans? Do they participate in clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge therapies? Are they accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, which indicates adherence to rigorous quality standards? Assessing the reputation of these specialists and the hospitals they are affiliated with, through patient reviews and professional evaluations, is also essential.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in the Candler healthcare landscape. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations, reducing the need for in-person visits. It can also facilitate access to mental health services, a critical aspect of breast cancer care. However, the digital divide, where some individuals lack reliable internet access or the technological skills to use telemedicine platforms, can exacerbate existing healthcare disparities. Examining the telemedicine infrastructure within local practices, including the availability of virtual appointment options and the support provided to patients navigating these technologies, is crucial.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but vital element of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for supporting patients through this challenging journey. Assessing the availability of these resources in Candler, including the number of mental health providers, their specialties, and their acceptance of various insurance plans, is critical. The integration of mental health services within cancer care programs, such as offering support groups or individual therapy sessions, further enhances the quality of care.

Beyond direct medical care, the availability of supportive services significantly impacts patient outcomes. These services include patient navigators who guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, financial assistance programs to help with the costs of treatment, and support groups that provide emotional support and a sense of community. Assessing the presence of these resources within Candler and the surrounding areas, and their accessibility to residents of 28715, is an integral part of the Breast Cancer Score analysis.

Identifying standout practices and hospitals within Candler and the surrounding region requires a deeper dive into specific metrics. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, evidenced by positive patient reviews, a focus on preventative screenings, and a collaborative approach to treatment, should be highlighted. Hospitals with comprehensive breast cancer programs, including multidisciplinary teams, access to clinical trials, and a commitment to patient education and support, should also be recognized. This analysis must consider the unique challenges faced by patients in Candler, such as potential transportation barriers or limited access to specialized services.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 28715 requires a detailed examination of primary care access, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and supportive services. This analysis should consider physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of local practices, the quality of hospital-based cancer programs, and the availability of supportive resources. By evaluating these factors, we can gain a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Candler, NC, and explore the geographic distribution of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. These maps provide an interactive and data-rich way to understand the accessibility of care and identify potential gaps in services. Click here to explore the power of CartoChrome maps and gain a more complete picture of the breast cancer care landscape in your community.