29483, Summerville, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29483, Summerville, South Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.60 percent of the residents in 29483 has some form of health insurance. 35.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.20 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 29483 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14,200 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29483. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,788 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,818 health care providers accessible to residents in 29483, Summerville, South Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Summerville, SC (ZIP Code 29483)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care within Summerville, South Carolina (ZIP code 29483), focusing on the availability and quality of services. The goal is to provide residents with insights into the local healthcare landscape, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon accessible primary care. Summerville, like many growing communities, faces challenges in maintaining adequate primary care physician (PCP) availability. A healthy physician-to-patient ratio is crucial for early detection and ongoing management. Currently, data suggests a moderate level of PCP availability in the area. While not critically underserved, the demand for primary care services in Summerville is increasing, potentially impacting appointment wait times and patient access. This directly affects the timeliness of breast cancer screenings and the ability to establish a strong patient-physician relationship, which is vital for navigating the complexities of diagnosis and treatment.

Several medical practices in Summerville stand out for their commitment to breast cancer care. These practices often integrate a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together primary care physicians, radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons. Their success is often measured by patient outcomes, which is a complex metric influenced by factors beyond the immediate care provided. These include the stage at diagnosis, patient adherence to treatment plans, and the availability of supportive services. However, practices with a proven track record of early detection, prompt referrals, and patient-centered care are considered highly valuable assets to the community.

Telemedicine is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, and its adoption in breast cancer care is particularly promising. Telemedicine offers several advantages in Summerville, including increased access to specialists, especially for those living in more rural areas or with mobility limitations. Remote consultations, virtual support groups, and online educational resources can significantly improve the patient experience. The degree of telemedicine adoption varies among local practices. Some have embraced it more fully, offering virtual appointments for follow-up care, medication management, and even some initial consultations. Others are still in the early stages of implementation, primarily utilizing telemedicine for limited purposes, such as reviewing imaging results. The level of technological integration within a practice is an important factor to consider when evaluating the quality of care.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Mental health resources are therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. The availability of these resources in Summerville is a critical factor in the overall quality of care. Ideally, practices should offer access to oncology social workers, therapists specializing in cancer care, and support groups. The availability of these services varies across practices. Some practices have integrated mental health professionals into their care teams, offering on-site counseling and support. Others rely on referrals to external mental health providers. The level of integration and the accessibility of these resources are essential for supporting patients throughout their journey.

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers or dedicated breast health programs is another key indicator of quality. These centers often offer a comprehensive range of services, including advanced imaging technologies, genetic counseling, and access to clinical trials. They typically employ a multidisciplinary team of specialists, providing a coordinated approach to care. The availability of these specialized centers within a reasonable distance is a significant advantage for residents of Summerville. These centers often have a greater capacity to provide the latest treatments and technologies.

The success of any breast cancer care program relies on effective communication and coordination among healthcare providers. This includes seamless information sharing between primary care physicians, radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates this process, enabling healthcare providers to access patient information quickly and efficiently. Practices that have fully implemented EHRs and have established robust communication protocols are better equipped to provide coordinated care. This coordination is critical for avoiding delays in diagnosis and treatment and for ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

Patient education and empowerment are integral to effective breast cancer care. Practices that prioritize patient education provide patients with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health. This includes providing information about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, treatment options, and supportive services. Practices that offer educational materials, workshops, and support groups are better equipped to empower patients to take an active role in their care. Patient education is a continuous process, and practices that foster open communication and provide ongoing support are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes.

The overall quality of breast cancer care in Summerville is a reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare. The availability of resources, the integration of technology, and the emphasis on patient-centered care are all important factors to consider. While the area faces challenges in terms of primary care access, several practices are demonstrating a commitment to providing high-quality breast cancer care.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Summerville, including the locations of medical practices, the availability of specialists, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring the CartoChrome maps.