29073, Lexington, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29073, Lexington, South Carolina is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.51 percent of the residents in 29073 has some form of health insurance. 32.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.11 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 29073 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12,798 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29073. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,258 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,814 health care providers accessible to residents in 29073, Lexington, South Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lexington, SC (ZIP Code 29073) & Primary Care Landscape**

This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians and related resources within Lexington, South Carolina (ZIP code 29073), focusing on aspects relevant to breast cancer care. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment, evaluating factors that influence access to screening, diagnosis, and supportive care. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer care system.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Lexington, as with many suburban areas, is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can create barriers to timely appointments, preventative care, and follow-up consultations. This can be particularly detrimental for women at higher risk of breast cancer or those experiencing symptoms. Accurate, up-to-date data on physician availability is essential. This includes not only the number of primary care physicians but also the number of specialists involved in breast cancer care, such as radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons. Publicly available sources, such as the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the U.S. Census Bureau, can provide some of this data, but it often requires significant aggregation and interpretation.

Identifying standout practices is another key element of this analysis. These practices may be recognized for excellence in patient care, innovative approaches to screening, or a commitment to patient education. Factors to consider include the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and the presence of certified breast health navigators. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or offer genetic counseling and testing services for high-risk patients also merit recognition. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys, though subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including wait times, communication effectiveness, and overall satisfaction with the care received.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural and underserved areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing disruptions to daily life. For breast cancer care, telemedicine can be particularly useful for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients undergoing treatment. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to specialists, especially for patients in areas with limited access to cancer centers. The analysis should evaluate the extent to which local primary care practices and specialists have adopted telemedicine technologies, including the types of services offered and the ease of use for patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common among breast cancer patients. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology is essential. The analysis should assess the availability of these resources in Lexington, including the number of therapists and counselors, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services. This includes assessing whether these professionals accept insurance and whether they offer services in a variety of formats, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups.

Assessing the integration of these various components into a cohesive system of care is critical. This includes evaluating the level of coordination between primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals. Does the local healthcare system facilitate seamless referrals and communication between providers? Are there established protocols for managing patients' care? Are there community-based resources, such as support groups and educational programs, available to patients and their families? The presence of a multidisciplinary approach, where different healthcare professionals work together to provide comprehensive care, is a strong indicator of a well-integrated system.

The analysis should also consider the role of community organizations and advocacy groups. These organizations can play a vital role in providing support, education, and resources to breast cancer patients. They may offer support groups, financial assistance, and educational programs. The analysis should assess the presence and activities of these organizations in Lexington. This can include assessing their partnerships with local healthcare providers and their ability to reach underserved populations.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and benefit from breast cancer care. The analysis should consider the prevalence of these factors in Lexington and assess the extent to which local healthcare providers are addressing these challenges. This may include offering transportation assistance, providing culturally sensitive care, and offering health education programs.

The analysis should also incorporate an assessment of local health insurance coverage. The availability of affordable health insurance is crucial for ensuring access to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The analysis should consider the rates of health insurance coverage in Lexington and assess the availability of financial assistance programs for low-income patients. This includes assessing the availability of programs that assist with the cost of mammograms, diagnostic tests, and treatment.

Finally, the analysis should acknowledge the dynamic nature of the healthcare landscape. New technologies, treatment options, and best practices are constantly emerging. The analysis should be updated regularly to reflect these changes and to ensure that the information provided remains accurate and relevant. This includes monitoring changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new resources.

By considering these factors, a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis can provide valuable insights into the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Lexington, SC (ZIP code 29073). This information can be used to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, and to improve the overall health of the community.

For an even more detailed visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and related healthcare infrastructure, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide a powerful visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lexington and beyond.