28735, Gerton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28735, Gerton, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28735 has some form of health insurance. 40.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.41 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 28735 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28735. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 91 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,055 health care providers accessible to residents in 28735, Gerton, North Carolina.

The following analysis examines breast cancer care within ZIP code 28735, focusing on physician availability and primary care resources in Gerton, North Carolina. This assessment considers several critical factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components of comprehensive breast cancer care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In a rural area like Gerton, the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, directly impacts the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and potentially, poorer outcomes. Data collection and analysis from various sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, the North Carolina Medical Board, and healthcare directories, are essential to accurately determine this ratio within the specified ZIP code and surrounding areas. This data should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This includes practices that offer comprehensive services, such as early detection through mammography and ultrasound, diagnostic biopsies, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. Factors to consider include the availability of multidisciplinary teams, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses specializing in breast cancer care. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) signifies a commitment to high-quality standards. Furthermore, practices that participate in clinical trials and research initiatives often provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of therapy remotely. This can significantly reduce the burden of travel, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. The analysis should assess the availability of telemedicine services offered by practices within and near the 28735 ZIP code, including the types of services offered, the ease of access, and the technology platforms used. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient’s emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis should evaluate the availability of mental health services within the community, including access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their breast cancer care programs demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. This includes on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, and educational resources for patients and their families.

Analyzing the primary care availability in Gerton is essential, as PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients. Their role in early detection, through breast cancer screenings and patient education, is critical. The analysis should assess the number of PCPs in Gerton, their patient load, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments. Furthermore, it should evaluate the referral pathways from PCPs to specialists, ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care. The presence of nurse navigators or patient advocates within primary care practices can significantly improve the patient experience and ensure that patients receive the support they need throughout their cancer journey.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence access to care. This includes the prevalence of health insurance coverage, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the transportation options available to patients. Areas with high rates of uninsured or underinsured individuals may face significant barriers to accessing timely and affordable care. The analysis should identify resources and programs that address these disparities, such as free or low-cost screening programs, financial assistance for treatment, and transportation services.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the community’s overall health literacy regarding breast cancer. This includes the level of awareness about risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options. Practices that actively engage in community outreach and education programs, such as health fairs and educational workshops, demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for the 28735 ZIP code and Gerton, North Carolina, would be a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed above. The score would reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in providing comprehensive breast cancer care. The score would be dynamic, changing based on the availability of doctors, the adoption of technology, and the availability of support services. The analysis should provide specific recommendations for improvement, such as increasing the number of specialists, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support.

The final assessment should be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing actionable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This information can be used to improve the quality of breast cancer care in the community, ensuring that all patients have access to the resources and support they need to fight this disease. The goal is to create a healthcare ecosystem that is patient-centered, accessible, and effective.

For a comprehensive, visually driven understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 28735 ZIP code and surrounding areas, including physician locations, access to care, and community resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Visualize the data and uncover valuable insights to enhance your healthcare decisions.