29406, Charleston, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29406, Charleston, South Carolina is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 73.07 percent of the residents in 29406 has some form of health insurance. 34.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.38 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 29406 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,671 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 300 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29406. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,463 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 16,761 health care providers accessible to residents in 29406, Charleston, South Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Charleston, SC (ZIP Code 29406)

This analysis delves into the breast cancer landscape within Charleston, South Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 29406, and the broader context of primary care availability within the city. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to women, evaluating factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall well-being. This is framed as a “Breast Cancer Score” analysis, considering various aspects of healthcare access and quality.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer strategy rests on robust primary care. In Charleston, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, general observations point to potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, particularly for new patients. This can delay crucial screenings and early diagnoses. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and community clinics within the city is vital, as they often serve underserved populations and offer affordable healthcare options. Their ability to provide comprehensive primary care, including breast cancer screenings, is a positive indicator.

Within ZIP code 29406, the concentration of medical facilities and the types of practices they represent are important. We need to assess the presence of practices with a strong emphasis on women's health. Are there dedicated women's health clinics? Do the primary care practices within the area have a significant number of female patients? These factors can affect the focus on breast cancer screening and patient education. The availability of certified mammography facilities within the ZIP code is paramount. The proximity of these facilities to primary care practices is another crucial consideration.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes offering state-of-the-art screening technologies, like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and providing clear patient education materials. Practices that proactively remind patients of screening appointments and offer personalized risk assessments are highly valued. The integration of patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is a significant asset. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to breast cancer demonstrate a commitment to advancing the field.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, and its adoption within Charleston's primary care landscape is relevant to this analysis. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telehealth options for breast cancer screening education and pre-screening consultations can also improve patient compliance. Practices that embrace telehealth technologies and integrate them seamlessly into their workflow are better positioned to provide patient-centered care.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score. Primary care practices should ideally have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. The presence of these resources within the community is also important. The availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer survivors and their families can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community. Access to these resources is a key indicator of the overall quality of care.

The quality of care also depends on the integration of various healthcare providers. Effective communication and collaboration between primary care physicians, radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists are essential for providing seamless patient care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and have established protocols for sharing patient information are better equipped to ensure coordinated care. The presence of multidisciplinary tumor boards, where specialists collaborate to develop treatment plans, is a sign of a high-quality healthcare system.

Another important consideration is the socio-economic factors affecting the patients. The accessibility of affordable healthcare is a key factor. The acceptance of various insurance plans by the practices, the availability of financial assistance programs for patients, and the presence of programs that provide free or low-cost mammograms are all relevant. Addressing the social determinants of health, such as transportation and access to healthy food, is also crucial.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, the overall patient experience should also be considered. This includes factors like the ease of scheduling appointments, the wait times in the waiting room, the friendliness and responsiveness of the staff, and the level of patient satisfaction. Patient feedback, through surveys and online reviews, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by different practices.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score is a composite measure that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care within a specific geographic area. It is a dynamic measure that should be updated regularly to reflect changes in healthcare practices and resources. The goal is to provide a framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and to identify areas where improvements can be made.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Charleston, SC, and to explore the locations of primary care practices, mammography facilities, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis.
**Click here to explore the CartoChrome maps and visualize the data for yourself.**