28723, Cullowhee, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28723, Cullowhee, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.16 percent of the residents in 28723 has some form of health insurance. 23.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.44 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 28723 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,988 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28723. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,171 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,275 health care providers accessible to residents in 28723, Cullowhee, North Carolina.

Analyzing breast cancer care in Cullowhee, North Carolina, ZIP code 28723, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care physician availability, a crucial element in early detection and ongoing support. It will also assess the quality of care provided by doctors within the area, taking into account factors like patient-to-physician ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components of a comprehensive breast cancer support system.

The foundation of any breast cancer care plan rests on accessible primary care. In Cullowhee, evaluating primary care availability involves looking at the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per patient, generally indicates better access. However, this metric alone is insufficient. The actual wait times for appointments, the acceptance of new patients, and the insurance plans accepted by each practice significantly impact accessibility. Investigating the specific practices in the area is essential.

Standout practices are identified by several factors. Positive patient reviews, accreditation by reputable organizations, and a demonstrated commitment to preventative care are key indicators. Practices actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, and providing educational materials are highly valued. The presence of dedicated nurse navigators or patient advocates, who can guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is a major asset. Furthermore, a practice's willingness to collaborate with specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, is crucial for ensuring seamless care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are more likely to provide convenient and accessible care. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform and the availability of technical support for patients are also important considerations.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive care plan. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community for patients. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a sign of a patient-centered approach.

Specific practices within ZIP code 28723 need individual evaluation. This assessment would involve a detailed review of their websites, patient reviews, and publicly available information. It would also include contacting the practices directly to inquire about their services, appointment availability, and telemedicine options. The goal is to identify practices that excel in all the areas discussed, providing a well-rounded and supportive environment for patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Cullowhee needs further investigation. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the US Census Bureau, and the American Medical Association can provide estimates. However, these figures may not fully reflect the reality on the ground. The actual number of practicing physicians in the area and the number of patients they serve will provide a more accurate picture.

The evaluation of standout practices requires a deeper dive. Researching patient testimonials, looking for awards or recognitions, and examining the practice's approach to preventative care and patient education are essential. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and provide resources for breast cancer awareness are often a good indicator of their commitment to patient well-being.

Telemedicine adoption in Cullowhee is a key factor. Investigating which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the ease of use of their platforms will provide insights into their accessibility. Practices that have integrated telemedicine seamlessly into their care plans are better positioned to serve patients effectively.

Mental health resources are crucial. Assessing the availability of on-site counseling, the presence of referral networks, and access to support groups is a critical element. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide resources for patients are demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive care.

The analysis of these factors will reveal a ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for the doctors in ZIP code 28723 and the primary care availability in Cullowhee. This score, though not a single number, will be a composite of the evaluations of all the factors discussed, providing a nuanced understanding of the quality of care available in the area. The score will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, allowing patients to make informed decisions about their care.

The evaluation process requires a comprehensive approach. It involves gathering data from multiple sources, conducting in-depth research, and considering the unique needs of the community. The goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in Cullowhee, empowering patients to navigate their journey with confidence.

The analysis of the ‘Breast Cancer Score’ would benefit from a visual representation of the data. A geographic mapping tool could highlight the locations of practices, the availability of services, and the physician-to-patient ratios across the area. This visual approach would provide a more intuitive and accessible understanding of the healthcare landscape.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cullowhee, and to visually explore the locations of practices, the availability of services, and the physician-to-patient ratios, we encourage you to use the power of CartoChrome maps.