28726, East Flat Rock, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28726, East Flat Rock, North Carolina is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 70.44 percent of the residents in 28726 has some form of health insurance. 36.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.63 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 28726 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,276 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28726. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 384 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,549 health care providers accessible to residents in 28726, East Flat Rock, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: East Flat Rock, NC (ZIP Code 28726)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care within the East Flat Rock, NC (ZIP Code 28726) area, focusing on primary care physician access, the presence of specialists, and the overall support system for patients. We'll examine key factors influencing a "Breast Cancer Score" for this community, considering the crucial elements of early detection, treatment, and ongoing support. This analysis is not a formal medical evaluation, but rather an assessment of the healthcare landscape relevant to breast cancer patients.

**Primary Care Landscape and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Regular screenings, early detection efforts, and referrals to specialists are all initiated by primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in East Flat Rock and Henderson County is a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Researching the specific ratio for this area is essential. Public health data, local hospital reports, and state medical board information are all valuable resources for determining the current PCP availability.

Furthermore, understanding the distribution of PCPs is important. Are they clustered in specific areas, making access difficult for residents in more remote locations within the zip code? Do these practices accept a variety of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, ensuring access for a broad segment of the population? An analysis of insurance acceptance is critical for understanding healthcare accessibility.

**Specialist Availability and Standout Practices:**

Beyond primary care, access to specialists is vital. This includes oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals specializing in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The presence of a local cancer center or affiliation with a larger regional hospital system significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The availability of specialized equipment, such as advanced mammography machines (including 3D mammography or tomosynthesis), is also a key factor.

Identifying standout practices within the area is important. These practices might excel in patient care, offer advanced treatment options, or have a strong track record of positive outcomes. Researching patient reviews, examining practice websites, and contacting local hospitals can help identify practices with a reputation for excellence in breast cancer care. Look for practices that emphasize a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together various specialists to create a comprehensive treatment plan.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support groups. Examining which practices offer telehealth options and the types of services available is crucial. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing treatment, reducing the need for frequent travel and providing convenient access to healthcare professionals.

**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a critical component of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. The presence of these resources within the East Flat Rock area directly contributes to the overall Breast Cancer Score.

Investigating local mental health providers, support groups affiliated with hospitals or cancer centers, and community resources is essential. Look for programs specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by breast cancer patients, such as anxiety, depression, and body image issues. The availability of these resources can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and overall treatment outcomes.

**Assessing the Score and Future Considerations:**

Calculating a definitive Breast Cancer Score requires gathering and analyzing data from various sources. This includes data on physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Each factor should be weighted based on its importance to patient care.

Beyond the factors discussed, other considerations could influence the score. This includes the availability of patient navigators to help guide patients through the healthcare system, access to financial assistance programs, and the presence of educational resources for patients and their families.

**Conclusion:**

Evaluating breast cancer care in East Flat Rock (ZIP Code 28726) reveals a complex landscape. Access to primary care, the availability of specialists, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources all play crucial roles in determining the quality of care. The analysis underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and support for breast cancer patients in this community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in East Flat Rock and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital affiliations, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and its impact on the community.