28777, Spruce Pine, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28777, Spruce Pine, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.96 percent of the residents in 28777 has some form of health insurance. 32.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.79 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 28777 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,614 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28777. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,794 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,592 health care providers accessible to residents in 28777, Spruce Pine, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Spruce Pine, NC (ZIP Code 28777)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Spruce Pine, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28777) requires a nuanced approach, particularly when assessing breast cancer care and primary care accessibility. This analysis aims to provide a 'Breast Cancer Score' perspective, evaluating key factors impacting patient outcomes and overall healthcare quality in this specific geographic area. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of primary care accessibility.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on a robust primary care system. Early detection and consistent follow-up are critical. The physician-to-patient ratio in Spruce Pine, and the surrounding Mitchell County, is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative screenings, and ultimately, poorer outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) will be essential in determining the current physician-to-patient ratio. Any analysis should also consider the specialties of the available physicians, noting the number of general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and gynecologists.

Standout practices within the 28777 ZIP code, or those serving the area, will be identified through a combination of publicly available data, patient reviews, and potentially, interviews with healthcare professionals. These practices might be recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care, their utilization of advanced diagnostic technologies, or their proactive approach to breast cancer screening and treatment. Identifying these practices can guide patients towards high-quality care and highlight areas where other practices can improve. Key indicators of a high-quality practice include the availability of certified mammography services, access to breast surgeons, and the presence of dedicated breast cancer navigators who assist patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Spruce Pine. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer screening, follow-up appointments, and mental health support can significantly improve patient outcomes. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine requires an examination of the technology infrastructure available within local practices, the willingness of physicians to embrace telehealth platforms, and the availability of reliable internet access for patients. Practices that readily offer telehealth options will receive higher scores in this analysis.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for patients' well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services requires an examination of the number of therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists available in the area, as well as their experience in treating patients with cancer. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is crucial. Practices that actively integrate mental health support into their care plans will be highly regarded.

Primary care availability, beyond physician-to-patient ratios, also encompasses access to services like routine checkups, preventative screenings, and chronic disease management. The availability of these services, and their accessibility (considering factors like insurance acceptance and wait times), is a key indicator of the overall health of the community. A robust primary care system is the first line of defense against breast cancer, ensuring that patients receive timely screenings and can be referred to specialists when necessary. The geographical distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas is also an important factor, particularly for patients with limited transportation options.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Spruce Pine will be a composite measure, reflecting the performance across all the above-mentioned categories. Each category will be weighted based on its relative importance in impacting patient outcomes. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in the area, identifying strengths and weaknesses. This score will provide a valuable tool for patients seeking care, healthcare providers looking to improve their services, and policymakers seeking to improve healthcare access and quality in the community.

The analysis will also consider factors such as the availability of support groups, patient education programs, and community outreach initiatives. These programs can play a crucial role in empowering patients, providing them with the information and support they need to navigate their diagnosis and treatment. Practices that actively participate in these initiatives will receive higher scores. The overall assessment will also consider the availability of resources for financial assistance, as cancer treatment can be expensive, and access to these resources can significantly impact patient outcomes.

The analysis will also consider the presence of any local hospitals or cancer centers that offer specialized breast cancer care. The availability of these facilities, and their proximity to the community, is a crucial factor in determining the overall quality of care. The availability of advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, will also be considered. The presence of clinical trials and research opportunities is also an indicator of a commitment to providing cutting-edge care.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' is not just a number; it is a reflection of the commitment of the healthcare community to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. It is a tool that can be used to identify areas for improvement and to guide patients towards the best possible care. It is a dynamic assessment that will need to be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

For a visual representation of this data, including the geographical distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant factors, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps offer an interactive way to understand the healthcare landscape of Spruce Pine and make informed decisions about your health.