28779, Sylva, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28779, Sylva, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.68 percent of the residents in 28779 has some form of health insurance. 36.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.81 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 28779 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,841 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28779. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,832 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,152 health care providers accessible to residents in 28779, Sylva, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28779 and Primary Care Availability in Sylva, NC**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, demands a multifaceted approach. This analysis will focus on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Sylva, North Carolina (ZIP code 28779), and evaluate the resources available for breast cancer patients within the same geographic area. The goal is to create a “Breast Cancer Score” that reflects the ease of access to care, the quality of that care, and the availability of supporting services. This score will not be a single number but rather a comprehensive evaluation based on several key factors.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on strong primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, initiating screenings, providing referrals to specialists, and coordinating overall care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Sylva is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on this ratio, sourced from the North Carolina Medical Board or other reliable sources, will be essential. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments for acute illnesses is also a factor. The analysis will delve into the number of PCPs accepting new patients, as this directly impacts access.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. The analysis will examine the practices’ adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening, including mammography recommendations based on age and risk factors. This involves looking at the frequency with which PCPs educate patients about breast cancer risks and promote self-exams. Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and the interoperability of these records between primary care practices and specialists. Seamless information sharing is vital for coordinated care.

Standout primary care practices within Sylva will be identified. These practices may be recognized for their patient-centered approach, their commitment to preventive care, or their integration of innovative technologies. This could include practices that have implemented patient portals for easy communication and access to medical records. The analysis will look for practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or other accommodations that make it easier for patients to access care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key aspect of the analysis. The ability to consult with a PCP or specialist remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Sylva. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices and specialists in the area offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education. The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing non-urgent health concerns.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health services in Sylva, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. It will also look at the integration of mental health services within the primary care setting, such as screening for depression and anxiety. The availability of resources for financial assistance and patient navigation services will also be considered.

The availability of specialists, particularly oncologists and surgeons, is crucial for breast cancer patients. The analysis will assess the proximity of specialists to Sylva and the ease with which patients can access their services. This involves looking at wait times for appointments, the availability of specialized treatments, and the level of collaboration between specialists and primary care physicians. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, offering a full range of services from diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, would significantly boost the overall Breast Cancer Score.

The analysis will also consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Patient navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, understanding medical information, and accessing financial assistance. The availability of support groups and educational resources for patients and their families will also be evaluated. The presence of community outreach programs and initiatives aimed at raising breast cancer awareness and promoting early detection will also be considered.

The analysis will also explore the availability of transportation services for patients who may have difficulty getting to appointments. This is particularly important in rural areas where public transportation may be limited. The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for patients who may need assistance with childcare or other caregiving responsibilities.

The Breast Cancer Score will be a composite of these factors, weighted according to their importance. The score will not be a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that can be updated as new data becomes available and as the healthcare landscape evolves. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the resources available to breast cancer patients in Sylva and to identify areas where improvements can be made. This analysis aims to provide actionable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients.

This analysis, encompassing physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, offers a snapshot of breast cancer care in Sylva. While this provides a starting point, the landscape is constantly changing. To visualize this data and explore the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and access to care, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can help you understand the geographic distribution of resources and identify areas where improvements are needed.