28789, Whittier, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28789, Whittier, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.13 percent of the residents in 28789 has some form of health insurance. 51.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.51 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 28789 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,642 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28789. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,475 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,295 health care providers accessible to residents in 28789, Whittier, North Carolina.

This analysis focuses on breast cancer care within ZIP code 28789, specifically Whittier, North Carolina, evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare landscape for individuals navigating breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an assessment based on publicly available information and general industry trends.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. Determining the precise ratio within a specific ZIP code requires access to detailed, proprietary data, which is unavailable. However, we can infer general availability. A rural area like Whittier likely faces challenges in physician recruitment and retention compared to more urban centers. This suggests a potentially lower physician-to-patient ratio, meaning each doctor may have a larger patient load. This can impact appointment wait times and the overall accessibility of care.

Primary care availability significantly impacts breast cancer detection and management. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact, performing initial screenings, referring patients to specialists, and coordinating care. The availability of PCPs in Whittier is therefore a critical factor. Limited primary care access can delay diagnosis, leading to poorer outcomes. Conversely, a robust primary care network facilitates early detection through regular screenings and timely referrals.

Identifying standout practices requires examining several factors. The presence of board-certified specialists, particularly oncologists and surgeons, is paramount. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound), chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, are highly desirable. Patient reviews, while subjective, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall quality of care. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Surgeons, indicates adherence to rigorous standards of care. Unfortunately, publicly available information often lacks granular detail about specific practices within a ZIP code.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Integration of mental health services into the treatment plan improves patient outcomes and overall quality of life. The availability of these resources is essential for comprehensive breast cancer care.

The specific characteristics of practices within 28789 are difficult to determine without detailed research. However, we can extrapolate based on general trends. Rural areas may face challenges in offering the full spectrum of services. Patients may need to travel to larger cities for specialized treatments or access to certain specialists. The availability of resources, such as support groups and mental health services, may also be limited.

The impact of these factors on patient outcomes is significant. Early detection, through regular screenings and timely referrals, is crucial for successful treatment. Access to experienced specialists, comprehensive services, and mental health support improves the chances of survival and enhances the patient's quality of life. The integration of telemedicine can improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel, particularly for patients in rural areas.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Whittier (28789) requires a nuanced understanding of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While a definitive ranking is impossible without detailed, proprietary data, the factors discussed provide a framework for evaluating the local healthcare landscape. The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of board-certified specialists, the integration of telemedicine, and the provision of mental health support are all critical elements of comprehensive breast cancer care.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare resources in Whittier and surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, specialists, and support services, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations that can help you identify the healthcare options available in your community.