28718, Cedar Mountain, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28718, Cedar Mountain, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.80 percent of the residents in 28718 has some form of health insurance. 37.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.31 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 28718 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28718. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 58 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,306 health care providers accessible to residents in 28718, Cedar Mountain, North Carolina.

Breast cancer, a formidable adversary, demands comprehensive care. This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer support within the 28718 ZIP code, specifically examining the availability of primary care physicians in Cedar Mountain, North Carolina. This assessment considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in the fight against breast cancer.

The initial assessment centers on physician-to-patient ratios. A high ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, significantly impacting patient outcomes. Conversely, a lower ratio, suggesting a greater availability of medical professionals, generally translates to improved access to care. Data on physician distribution within 28718, and specifically within Cedar Mountain, is essential. Publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), offer insights into physician density. However, it’s crucial to consider the specific specialties available. While a high number of general practitioners is beneficial, the presence of oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists specializing in breast cancer is paramount.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This encompasses several aspects. Firstly, the practice's diagnostic capabilities. Does the practice offer state-of-the-art mammography, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis)? Do they provide access to breast MRI and ultrasound? Secondly, the practice's treatment protocols. Are they up-to-date with the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy? Thirdly, the practice's patient-centered approach. Does the practice offer support services, such as patient navigators, who can guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment? Does the practice have a strong emphasis on patient education and communication?

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists in 28718 is a key factor. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances. The ability to receive consultations from oncologists or surgeons via video conferencing can significantly improve patient convenience and access to expert opinions. The analysis should assess the availability of telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the overall patient satisfaction with telemedicine services.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Mental health resources are therefore integral to comprehensive care. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in supporting patients with cancer. Are there support groups available? Are there partnerships between medical practices and mental health providers? Access to mental health services can significantly improve patient well-being and treatment adherence. The availability of these resources is a critical indicator of the quality of care provided.

Primary care availability in Cedar Mountain is of particular importance. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or concerns. Early detection is crucial in breast cancer treatment, and primary care physicians play a vital role in this process. The analysis should assess the number of primary care physicians in Cedar Mountain, the availability of appointments, and the physician's awareness of breast cancer screening guidelines. The ability of primary care physicians to provide timely referrals to specialists is also a crucial factor.

The assessment of practices within 28718 should involve a review of online patient reviews and ratings. While not always definitive, patient feedback can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the communication skills of physicians, and the overall patient experience. Reputable review sites, such as Healthgrades and Vitals, can be consulted. However, it is important to consider the limitations of online reviews and to interpret them in conjunction with other data sources.

The analysis should also examine the availability of breast cancer screening services, such as mammograms and breast ultrasounds. The presence of a local imaging center or the availability of mobile mammography units can significantly improve access to screening services, particularly for women in rural areas. The analysis should assess the cost of screening services and the availability of financial assistance programs for those who cannot afford them.

The evaluation of breast cancer support within 28718 requires a multi-faceted approach. It is essential to consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of primary care physicians in Cedar Mountain. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the resources available to patients in the area. This information can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness in the local healthcare system and to inform efforts to improve access to quality breast cancer care.

The culmination of this analysis, with its complex layers of data, can be visualized and easily understood through spatial mapping. CartoChrome maps can help visualize the distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of resources within the 28718 ZIP code. CartoChrome maps can highlight areas with limited access to care, allowing for targeted interventions and improvements. Visualize this data, understand the landscape of breast cancer care in 28718, and make informed decisions about your health.