28790, Zirconia, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28790, Zirconia, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.40 percent of the residents in 28790 has some form of health insurance. 31.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.06 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 28790 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 549 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28790. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 651 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,368 health care providers accessible to residents in 28790, Zirconia, North Carolina.

The analysis below assesses breast cancer care within ZIP code 28790, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in Zirconia, North Carolina. This evaluation considers several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive breast cancer support.

Understanding the physician landscape is paramount. ZIP code 28790, encompassing Zirconia, is a predominantly rural area. This geographic reality often translates to a lower density of healthcare providers compared to more urban centers. Physician-to-patient ratios, therefore, are a critical metric. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally indicates better access to care. However, even a favorable ratio doesn't guarantee quality. The expertise of the physicians, the resources available within their practices, and their integration with specialist networks are equally important.

Assessing primary care availability in Zirconia necessitates examining the types of practices present. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? Larger systems often provide a broader range of services, including access to specialists, advanced diagnostic equipment, and coordinated care pathways. Solo practitioners, while potentially offering personalized attention, may have limited resources and referral networks. The presence of family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and gynecologists is also crucial. These are the primary points of contact for women's health concerns and play a vital role in early detection and referral for breast cancer screening and diagnosis.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves looking beyond simple metrics and evaluating the quality of care provided. Factors to consider include patient reviews, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the practice's commitment to preventative care. Does the practice actively promote breast cancer screening, such as mammograms, and provide educational materials to patients? Do they have established protocols for managing patients with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors? The practice's responsiveness to patient needs, including appointment availability and communication efficiency, is also a key indicator of quality.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access healthcare services remotely. For breast cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and mental health support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and access. The sophistication of the telemedicine platform, the types of services offered, and the integration with the practice's electronic health records are all important considerations.

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the primary care setting or through referral networks is essential. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients demonstrate a holistic approach to care. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers ensures patients receive comprehensive support.

The evaluation of breast cancer care in Zirconia requires a multifaceted approach. It's not just about the number of doctors but also about the quality of their practices, their integration of technology, and their commitment to addressing the emotional well-being of their patients. The ideal scenario involves a network of primary care providers who are well-equipped to provide comprehensive care, including early detection, referral to specialists, and access to mental health support.

The assessment of specific practices within ZIP code 28790 would involve a detailed review of each practice's website, patient reviews, and publicly available data. It's important to note that specific practice names and detailed rankings cannot be provided here due to privacy concerns and the dynamic nature of healthcare information. However, the framework outlined above provides a roadmap for conducting a thorough evaluation. This includes assessing the practice's physician-to-patient ratio, its commitment to preventative care, its adoption of telemedicine, and its provision of mental health resources.

The availability of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, is also a crucial factor. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to specialized care is essential for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of specialist centers and the ease of referral processes are important considerations. A strong referral network ensures that patients can access the specialized care they need in a timely manner.

Furthermore, the integration of technology plays a significant role. Electronic health records (EHRs) facilitate information sharing between providers, improving care coordination. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are better equipped to manage patient data, track progress, and ensure that patients receive the appropriate care. The ability to access medical records, schedule appointments online, and communicate with providers electronically enhances patient convenience and engagement.

The assessment of breast cancer care also involves considering the social determinants of health. These factors, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural background, can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and receive quality care. Practices that are aware of these factors and work to address them demonstrate a commitment to health equity. This may involve providing transportation assistance, offering language services, or tailoring care to meet the specific needs of the patient population.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in Zirconia requires a comprehensive approach that considers physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialist care. The goal is to identify practices that provide high-quality, patient-centered care, and to ensure that all women in the community have access to the resources they need to prevent, detect, and treat breast cancer.

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