28745, Lake Junaluska, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28745, Lake Junaluska, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28745 has some form of health insurance. 68.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.77 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 28745 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 68 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28745. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 154 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,018 health care providers accessible to residents in 28745, Lake Junaluska, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lake Junaluska, NC (ZIP Code 28745)

Lake Junaluska, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the 28745 ZIP code, specifically considering the practices of physicians and the broader primary care environment. This assessment aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is the accessibility of primary care physicians. These professionals are often the first point of contact, responsible for initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing patient management. In Lake Junaluska, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Determining the number of primary care physicians per 1,000 residents offers a crucial insight into the potential for timely appointments and proactive care. A higher ratio generally suggests greater accessibility, while a lower ratio might indicate potential challenges in securing appointments and receiving prompt attention. The availability of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often play a vital role in primary care, must also be factored into this calculation.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is critical. This involves evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative care, including adherence to breast cancer screening guidelines. Do these practices actively promote mammograms and other relevant tests? Do they provide patient education materials on breast cancer risk factors and self-examination techniques? Practices that proactively engage in these activities are likely to contribute positively to the Breast Cancer Score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another significant factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Lake Junaluska. It can facilitate timely consultations with specialists, provide access to second opinions, and streamline follow-up appointments. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to enhance the overall Breast Cancer Score by increasing patient convenience and potentially reducing delays in care. Examining the availability of telehealth services for both primary care and specialist consultations is crucial.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but vital aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the local healthcare ecosystem is therefore essential. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care models are likely to contribute positively to the Breast Cancer Score. This includes assessing the availability of on-site mental health services, referral pathways to mental health specialists, and the integration of mental health screenings into routine care.

Identifying standout practices within the 28745 ZIP code is a key objective. These practices may demonstrate exceptional performance in several areas. This includes a strong emphasis on preventative care, a high rate of mammogram referrals, and a commitment to patient education. They may also exhibit a proactive approach to mental health support, offering on-site counseling or establishing strong referral networks. Practices that have embraced telemedicine to improve patient access and convenience will also be considered.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized breast cancer care within the local area is critical. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is essential for diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the availability of these specialists within a reasonable travel distance is crucial. This includes evaluating the proximity of cancer centers, the availability of advanced imaging technologies, and the presence of multidisciplinary teams that can provide comprehensive care.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Lake Junaluska (28745) is influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high score reflects a healthcare environment characterized by accessible primary care, proactive screening practices, a commitment to patient education, the integration of mental health support, and the availability of specialized breast cancer care. A lower score might indicate challenges in accessing care, limited screening efforts, or a lack of support services.

To determine the actual score, one must gather and analyze specific data. This includes the physician-to-patient ratio, the number of primary care practices actively promoting breast cancer screening, the availability of telemedicine services, the presence of mental health professionals, and the proximity of specialized breast cancer care facilities. This data-driven approach will provide a comprehensive and objective assessment of the healthcare landscape in Lake Junaluska, allowing for a more informed understanding of the Breast Cancer Score.

The evaluation process should also consider the patient experience. This includes assessing patient satisfaction levels, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the overall quality of communication between patients and their healthcare providers. Gathering patient feedback through surveys or interviews can provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The analysis of the Breast Cancer Score should also consider the demographics of the Lake Junaluska population. This includes factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation. Understanding the specific needs of the community can help identify potential disparities in care and inform strategies to improve access for all residents.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score is a dynamic measure that should be continuously monitored and updated. As healthcare practices evolve and new technologies emerge, it is essential to regularly reassess the healthcare landscape and make adjustments to the scoring methodology. This ongoing process will ensure that the Breast Cancer Score remains a relevant and valuable tool for evaluating the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Lake Junaluska.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lake Junaluska, including the location of primary care practices, specialist facilities, and other relevant resources, consider exploring interactive maps. These tools can provide a valuable spatial perspective, allowing you to identify areas with high and low concentrations of healthcare providers and assess the accessibility of care.