28739, Hendersonville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28739, Hendersonville, North Carolina is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.65 percent of the residents in 28739 has some form of health insurance. 44.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.63 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 28739 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,836 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28739. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,708 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,970 health care providers accessible to residents in 28739, Hendersonville, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Hendersonville, NC (ZIP Code 28739)

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within Hendersonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28739), focusing on physician availability, primary care resources, and related support services. The goal is to provide an informed overview, highlighting strengths and areas for potential improvement in this critical area of healthcare.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon accessible and competent medical professionals. In ZIP code 28739, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians, the initial point of contact for many patients, plays a crucial role. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments, quicker diagnoses, and more personalized care. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times, potentially delaying crucial screenings and treatments. Analyzing this ratio, alongside the availability of specialists such as oncologists and radiologists, is paramount.

The availability of primary care physicians in Hendersonville is a crucial factor. This includes not only the number of physicians but also their acceptance of new patients and the range of services they provide. A robust primary care system is essential for early detection through regular screenings, patient education, and timely referrals to specialists when necessary. Investigating the practices’ commitment to preventative care, including mammogram recommendations and follow-up protocols, is also vital.

Standout practices within the Hendersonville area warrant specific attention. These are medical groups or individual physicians who demonstrate exceptional performance in breast cancer care. This assessment would consider factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines for screening and treatment, and the integration of innovative technologies. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or offer specialized services, such as genetic counseling or advanced imaging techniques, would be particularly noteworthy. Identifying these "best-in-class" providers can help patients make informed decisions about their care and potentially improve overall outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly significant in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Hendersonville. The ability to consult with physicians remotely can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate timely follow-up appointments. Evaluating the extent to which practices in ZIP code 28739 utilize telemedicine for breast cancer-related services, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education, is essential. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies can potentially improve access to care, particularly for those living in remote areas or with mobility limitations.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health support is crucial for patients' well-being. This analysis examines the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. It also considers the availability of support groups, educational programs, and other resources that can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of their illness.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – paints a comprehensive picture of the breast cancer care landscape in Hendersonville. A robust system will demonstrate a balanced approach, with adequate physician availability, a strong primary care network, the adoption of innovative technologies, and a commitment to providing comprehensive mental health support.

In assessing the physician-to-patient ratios, it's important to consider the distribution of physicians across the ZIP code. Are they concentrated in specific areas, or are they evenly distributed, ensuring that all residents have relatively equal access to care? Analyzing the geographic distribution can reveal potential disparities in access and identify areas where additional resources may be needed.

The primary care network’s commitment to preventative care is a significant factor. This includes the frequency with which primary care physicians recommend mammograms, the age at which they begin recommending screenings, and their adherence to established guidelines for screening intervals. Practices that proactively engage in patient education about breast cancer risk factors and early detection strategies are particularly valuable.

The standout practices would be identified through a combination of factors, including patient feedback, physician ratings, and the adoption of advanced technologies. These practices might offer specialized services, such as genetic counseling for patients with a family history of breast cancer, or access to clinical trials for patients with advanced disease. The level of patient satisfaction, as measured through surveys and online reviews, would also be a key indicator.

Telemedicine’s impact on breast cancer care in Hendersonville is substantial. Practices that embrace virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education programs can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. Assessing the ease of use of these telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan is essential.

Mental health resources, specifically those tailored to breast cancer patients, are a critical component of holistic care. This includes the availability of oncology-specific therapists, support groups, and educational programs. Practices that proactively integrate mental health services into their care plans, recognizing the emotional toll of cancer diagnosis and treatment, demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being.

In conclusion, the assessment of breast cancer care in Hendersonville, NC (ZIP Code 28739) requires a multifaceted approach. By analyzing physician availability, primary care resources, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the current system. This analysis provides a foundation for improving access to care, enhancing patient outcomes, and ultimately, supporting the well-being of individuals affected by breast cancer.

For a visual representation of the physician locations, practice locations, and resource distribution, consider using CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform can provide valuable insights into the geographic accessibility of breast cancer care in Hendersonville.