28734, Franklin, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28734, Franklin, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.85 percent of the residents in 28734 has some form of health insurance. 46.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.08 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 28734 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,804 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28734. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,430 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,688 health care providers accessible to residents in 28734, Franklin, North Carolina.

The analysis below evaluates the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28734, focusing on Franklin, North Carolina, and its surrounding area. This assessment considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and access to supportive mental health services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement within the local healthcare ecosystem.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. In Franklin, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a key determinant of early detection and preventative care. A higher ratio generally suggests better access, allowing for more frequent screenings and timely referrals. However, this is not the only factor. The specialization of physicians, particularly in oncology and radiology, also impacts the effectiveness of breast cancer care. An inadequate number of specialists can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, negatively impacting patient outcomes. Analyzing these ratios requires data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, providing a detailed picture of resource distribution.

Standout practices within the 28734 ZIP code likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. These practices often integrate multiple services under one roof, streamlining the patient experience. This can include diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound), biopsy capabilities, and access to surgical oncology. Furthermore, high-quality practices often participate in clinical trials, providing patients access to the latest advancements in treatment. Examining patient testimonials, practice accreditations (e.g., from the American College of Surgeons), and the availability of support groups are essential in identifying these leading practices.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Franklin. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, including remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be locally available. The availability of telehealth services can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and potentially lead to earlier detection and intervention. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration requires reviewing the practices' websites, contacting them directly, and examining their billing practices to see if they offer telehealth options.

Mental health resources are an integral component of breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological impact of a diagnosis and treatment can be profound. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is crucial for patient well-being and recovery. Evaluating the availability of these resources requires examining local hospital systems, community health centers, and non-profit organizations. The presence of oncology-specific mental health support is especially important, as it can provide tailored care to address the unique challenges faced by breast cancer patients.

Breast cancer screening rates are another vital indicator of the effectiveness of the healthcare system. High screening rates, especially among women over 40, are associated with earlier detection and improved survival rates. Analyzing screening rates requires data from public health agencies and local healthcare providers. Factors influencing screening rates include access to care, insurance coverage, and patient education. Addressing any disparities in screening rates is essential to ensuring equitable access to care for all residents of the 28734 ZIP code.

The availability of patient navigators is a significant asset in breast cancer care. Patient navigators guide patients through the complex healthcare system, providing support, education, and advocacy. They can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, and addressing financial concerns. The presence of patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience and reduce the burden of navigating the healthcare system. Identifying practices that offer patient navigation services is crucial for assessing the quality of care.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can also impact the quality of care. EHRs facilitate the seamless exchange of information between healthcare providers, improving care coordination. Patient portals provide patients with access to their medical records, test results, and communication with their healthcare providers. Assessing the technological infrastructure of local practices is crucial for evaluating their commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

The level of community outreach and education initiatives is another important factor. Practices that actively engage in community outreach, such as organizing breast cancer awareness events and providing educational materials, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and early detection. These initiatives can increase awareness of breast cancer risks and promote regular screenings. Evaluating the extent of these outreach efforts requires reviewing practice websites, social media presence, and community involvement.

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers within the 28734 ZIP code can significantly enhance the quality of care. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together a team of specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses, to provide comprehensive care. They often have access to advanced technologies and participate in clinical trials. Identifying these specialized centers is crucial for assessing the availability of high-quality breast cancer care.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care within ZIP code 28734 and the surrounding area requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, examining mental health resources, analyzing screening rates, and reviewing the availability of patient navigators and technological integration. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Franklin and surrounding areas, including the locations of healthcare providers, access to care, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Click here to see how CartoChrome can help you visualize and analyze the healthcare environment in the 28734 ZIP code.