28733, Fontana Dam, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28733, Fontana Dam, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 45.21 percent of the residents in 28733 has some form of health insurance. 24.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.21 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 28733 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28733. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 18 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 62 health care providers accessible to residents in 28733, Fontana Dam, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Fontana Dam, NC (ZIP Code 28733)

Fontana Dam, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, presents a unique challenge when considering access to healthcare, specifically in the context of breast cancer care. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the availability and quality of care for residents of ZIP code 28733, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility and related resources. The remote location and sparse population density of Fontana Dam significantly impact the healthcare landscape, demanding a nuanced understanding of the available resources.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on strong primary care. Early detection and preventative measures, such as regular screenings and patient education, are largely facilitated by PCPs. However, the physician-to-patient ratio in Fontana Dam and the surrounding areas is likely a critical factor. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors serving a larger population, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Assessing this ratio is the initial step in evaluating the breast cancer score. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the American Medical Association would be crucial in determining the actual physician-to-patient ratio within a reasonable radius of Fontana Dam.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the type of practices available is also important. Are there any primary care practices that specialize in women's health? Do they offer on-site mammography or have established referral pathways to specialized breast cancer centers? Identifying standout practices, those that demonstrate a commitment to women's health and early detection, is crucial. This would involve researching the services offered by each practice, their patient reviews, and their affiliations with larger healthcare systems. This could involve assessing the availability of services like clinical breast exams, education on self-exams, and the provision of resources for patients at high risk.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Given the geographical challenges of Fontana Dam, telemedicine could significantly improve access to care. Are local practices utilizing telemedicine platforms for consultations, follow-up appointments, and specialist referrals? Telemedicine can bridge the distance barrier, allowing patients to connect with specialists and receive timely care without the need for extensive travel. Investigating the availability of telemedicine services, their ease of use, and the level of patient satisfaction with these services would be essential in scoring the breast cancer care landscape.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for coping with the physical and emotional challenges of the disease. The analysis must consider the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within a reasonable distance from Fontana Dam. Do the local practices have established relationships with mental health providers? Do they offer referrals to support groups or other resources for patients and their families? Access to mental health support directly impacts the overall quality of care.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of specialized breast cancer centers. While Fontana Dam may not have a dedicated cancer center within its immediate vicinity, the proximity to such facilities in larger towns or cities is crucial. The analysis should identify the nearest breast cancer centers, their services, and the ease of access for patients in Fontana Dam. This includes evaluating the transportation options available, the referral processes, and the overall coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialized cancer centers.

Another aspect to consider is the availability of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients may struggle to afford the costs of care. The analysis should identify any local, state, or national programs that offer financial assistance to breast cancer patients. This includes information on eligibility requirements, application processes, and the types of support available.

Finally, the analysis should assess the level of patient education and awareness efforts. Are there any local initiatives to raise awareness about breast cancer, promote early detection, and provide education to the community? This includes the availability of educational materials, outreach programs, and support groups.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" for Fontana Dam, NC (ZIP code 28733) is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the services offered by primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the proximity to specialized breast cancer centers, the availability of financial assistance, and the level of patient education and awareness efforts. The remoteness of Fontana Dam presents significant challenges, but the adoption of innovative solutions like telemedicine and the establishment of strong referral networks can mitigate these challenges.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape, including the locations of primary care practices, breast cancer centers, and mental health resources, we encourage you to explore interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can provide an intuitive and informative visualization of the healthcare resources available in and around Fontana Dam. Explore the power of visual data and gain a deeper understanding of your community's healthcare access by visiting CartoChrome maps today.