28742, Horse Shoe, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28742, Horse Shoe, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.91 percent of the residents in 28742 has some form of health insurance. 36.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.14 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 28742 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 370 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28742. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 717 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,502 health care providers accessible to residents in 28742, Horse Shoe, North Carolina.

This analysis evaluates the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28742, encompassing the town of Horse Shoe, North Carolina. It considers the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system rests on accessible primary care. In Horse Shoe, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial factor. Residents often rely on their primary care doctors for initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing support. Examining the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 28742 ZIP code, in relation to the population, provides an initial assessment of access. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and comprehensiveness of primary care services are vital. Do primary care practices offer comprehensive women's health services, including routine mammograms or referrals to imaging centers? Do they have established protocols for breast cancer screening and early detection? These factors significantly impact the overall quality of care. The presence of practices that actively promote preventative care and patient education is highly beneficial.

Specialized breast cancer care, including oncology services, surgical expertise, and radiation therapy, is also a critical component. Determining the proximity of these specialists to Horse Shoe residents is essential. While the 28742 ZIP code may not directly house these specialized services, the accessibility of such specialists in nearby areas, such as Asheville, is important. The time and distance required to reach these facilities can significantly affect a patient's experience and outcomes. Furthermore, the presence of multidisciplinary cancer centers, where oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists collaborate, generally leads to improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists within the region can significantly improve access to care. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent travel, which is particularly beneficial for patients undergoing treatment or follow-up care. Evaluating the extent to which local providers utilize telemedicine platforms, and the types of services offered via these platforms, is essential.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet crucial, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as counselors, therapists, and support groups, is essential. Does the local healthcare system integrate mental health services into its breast cancer care pathways? Are there partnerships between oncology practices and mental health professionals? The presence of these resources can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of cancer treatment.

Evaluating the practices within the 28742 ZIP code requires an assessment of their reputation and performance. This involves gathering data from patient reviews, assessing the practice's accreditations and certifications, and examining their commitment to quality improvement initiatives. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients, demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, and actively participate in quality improvement programs are generally considered to provide a higher standard of care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric for understanding access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to calculate this ratio. By comparing the number of primary care physicians within the 28742 ZIP code to the population, we can determine if the area is underserved or if there is adequate access to primary care. The analysis must also consider the availability of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, in the surrounding areas.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. This may involve offering extended hours, providing bilingual services, or actively participating in community outreach programs. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer support groups, and integrate mental health services into their care models are often considered leaders in the field. Identifying these practices requires a thorough review of their services, patient reviews, and community involvement.

Telemedicine adoption varies among practices. Some may offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, while others may utilize remote monitoring technologies to track patient progress. The extent of telemedicine adoption can be assessed by examining the practice's website, reviewing their patient communication protocols, and surveying patients about their experiences with telemedicine services. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine are generally better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of breast cancer care. This can involve partnerships with local mental health providers, on-site counseling services, or referrals to support groups. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and actively work to address the emotional needs of their patients are generally considered to provide a more holistic and supportive care model.

In conclusion, the quality of breast cancer care in Horse Shoe, North Carolina, and the surrounding ZIP code 28742, is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Access to primary care, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all play a crucial role. Residents seeking breast cancer care should carefully consider these factors when choosing a provider.

To visualize the landscape of healthcare providers in the area and explore the accessibility of services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's maps can help you identify physicians, specialists, and facilities within the 28742 ZIP code and surrounding areas, providing valuable insights into the local healthcare ecosystem.