28783, Tuckasegee, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28783, Tuckasegee, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.84 percent of the residents in 28783 has some form of health insurance. 40.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.21 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 28783 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 452 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28783. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 301 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,475 health care providers accessible to residents in 28783, Tuckasegee, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28783 and Primary Care Availability in Tuckasegee**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, particularly concerning breast cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 28783 (Tuckasegee, North Carolina) and assesses the availability and quality of primary care, a critical component of early detection and ongoing support for breast cancer patients. We will evaluate the physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all factors contributing to a "Breast Cancer Score" for this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a crucial role in screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio in 28783 is a key indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating a high number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with local hospital and clinic reports, provides the basis for determining this ratio. If the ratio is unfavorable, it necessitates an investigation into the reasons, such as a shortage of physicians, a large elderly population, or a high incidence of chronic illnesses.

Standout practices within the ZIP code deserve recognition. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to proactive patient care. They might offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day sick visits, all of which enhance accessibility. Practices that actively promote breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, and provide educational materials to patients are particularly valuable. Furthermore, practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient health history, send reminders for screenings, and facilitate communication with specialists are essential for coordinated care. Identifying these practices involves analyzing patient reviews, conducting site visits, and examining the practices’ adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Tuckasegee. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and support services without requiring lengthy travel. The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care, oncology, and mental health is a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and patient portals demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the practices’ websites, contacting the offices directly, and reviewing patient feedback on their telehealth experiences.

The mental health aspect of breast cancer care is often overlooked, but it is undeniably crucial. A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a vital component of comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the local mental health services, partnering with cancer support organizations, and conducting interviews with patients and healthcare providers. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models and provide referrals to qualified mental health professionals receive higher scores.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a single, quantifiable metric, but a holistic assessment based on the factors discussed above. The score is determined by evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for breast cancer care, with greater access to qualified physicians, advanced technology, and comprehensive support services. The score will be used to highlight areas of strength and identify opportunities for improvement.

In Tuckasegee, an assessment of primary care availability reveals several potential challenges. The rural nature of the area may contribute to a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban centers. This can impact access to care and increase wait times. However, the presence of dedicated primary care practices, offering extended hours and promoting preventative care, could mitigate some of these challenges. The adoption of telemedicine, though potentially limited by infrastructure, could play a vital role in bridging geographical barriers and providing access to specialists. The availability of mental health resources, particularly those tailored to the needs of cancer patients, is also crucial for a high Breast Cancer Score.

The data collection process involves gathering information from multiple sources. This includes public health data, physician directories, hospital records, and patient surveys. The analysis also involves conducting site visits to assess practice infrastructure and interviewing healthcare providers to gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape. The findings are then compiled to create a comprehensive assessment of the Breast Cancer Score.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare environment in ZIP code 28783, specifically concerning breast cancer care. This information can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to allocate resources effectively. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, we can work towards improving access to quality care and supporting the well-being of breast cancer patients.

The Breast Cancer Score is dynamic. It is subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves. The score is updated regularly to reflect changes in physician availability, technology adoption, and the availability of support services. This ongoing assessment ensures that the information provided remains current and relevant.

The analysis also considers the social determinants of health. Factors such as income, education, and access to transportation can significantly impact a patient’s ability to access and receive quality healthcare. These factors are incorporated into the Breast Cancer Score to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 28783 is a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement. This analysis provides a starting point for a more in-depth investigation into the specific challenges and opportunities facing the community.

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