28801, Asheville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28801, Asheville, North Carolina is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.88 percent of the residents in 28801 has some form of health insurance. 31.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.41 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 28801 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,998 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28801. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,292 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,185 health care providers accessible to residents in 28801, Asheville, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Asheville, NC (ZIP Code 28801)

This analysis provides a 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 28801 ZIP code of Asheville, North Carolina, focusing on factors crucial for early detection, comprehensive care, and patient support. The score is not a definitive ranking, but rather a composite evaluation based on publicly available data, industry best practices, and an understanding of the unique healthcare landscape of this region. This analysis also considers primary care availability, a critical element in ensuring timely access to screening and referrals.

**Methodology:** The 'Breast Cancer Score' considers several key areas. First, it assesses physician-to-patient ratios within the 28801 ZIP code. Higher ratios, indicating a potential shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments and potentially hinder timely screenings. Second, the analysis evaluates the availability of preventative care services, including mammography referrals, breast cancer risk assessments, and patient education materials. Third, it explores the adoption of telemedicine for breast cancer-related consultations and follow-up appointments. Fourth, the score considers the integration of mental health resources, recognizing the significant psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Finally, the analysis looks at the presence of standout practices with a demonstrated commitment to breast cancer care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:** Asheville, and particularly the 28801 ZIP code, faces challenges regarding primary care access. While specific physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, the general trend suggests a potential shortage, particularly in the context of an aging population and increased demand for healthcare services. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, impacting the timeliness of screenings and referrals for breast cancer detection.

Primary care availability is intrinsically linked to the success of breast cancer care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals to specialists are paramount. When access to a PCP is limited, women may delay or forgo these essential preventative measures, potentially leading to later-stage diagnoses and less favorable outcomes. The analysis will consider the presence of community health centers and other resources that help mitigate the impact of PCP shortages.

**Preventative Care and Screening Practices:** The cornerstone of any effective breast cancer care system is robust preventative care. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will examine the practices of PCPs in 28801 regarding mammography referrals. This includes the frequency with which PCPs recommend mammograms based on established guidelines, the ease with which patients can obtain these referrals, and the availability of patient education materials about breast cancer risk factors and screening recommendations. The score will also consider whether practices offer breast cancer risk assessments, which can help identify women at higher risk who may benefit from more frequent screening or other preventative measures.

**Telemedicine Adoption:** Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, and its role in breast cancer care is growing. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will assess the extent to which PCPs in 28801 utilize telemedicine for breast cancer-related consultations. This includes virtual appointments for discussing screening results, providing follow-up care after a diagnosis, and offering support to patients undergoing treatment. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues, and can facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers.

**Mental Health Resources:** A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will evaluate the integration of mental health resources into the care provided by PCPs in 28801. This includes the availability of on-site counselors or referrals to mental health professionals who specialize in oncology, as well as the use of screening tools to identify patients who may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. The score will also consider whether practices offer support groups or other resources to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of breast cancer.

**Standout Practices:** Certain practices may demonstrate a particularly strong commitment to breast cancer care. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will identify and highlight these standout practices, recognizing their efforts to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care. This may include practices that have implemented innovative screening programs, offer specialized support services, or have a strong track record of patient satisfaction. These practices can serve as models for other PCPs in the area, helping to raise the overall standard of breast cancer care in 28801.

**Specific Considerations for Asheville:** The healthcare landscape in Asheville has unique characteristics. The city is known for its focus on holistic health and wellness. This analysis will consider how PCPs in 28801 incorporate these values into their breast cancer care practices. For example, the score will assess the availability of resources related to nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle factors that can play a role in breast cancer prevention and treatment. The analysis will also consider the presence of integrative medicine practices that may offer alternative therapies to complement conventional treatments.

**Challenges and Opportunities:** The 28801 ZIP code, like many areas, faces challenges in providing optimal breast cancer care. These challenges include potential PCP shortages, the need for increased access to screening services, and the importance of addressing the mental health needs of patients. However, there are also opportunities to improve care. These include the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the development of innovative screening programs. By focusing on these areas, PCPs in 28801 can improve the quality of care and outcomes for women affected by breast cancer.

**Conclusion:** The 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis provides a valuable framework for evaluating the quality of breast cancer care in the 28801 ZIP code. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, preventative care practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and standout practices, this analysis can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and empower PCPs to improve the services they offer.

**Take Action:** Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Asheville and gain deeper insights into the availability of resources? Explore the power of location intelligence with CartoChrome maps. See how the distribution of PCPs, screening facilities, and support services impacts access to care.