29506, Florence, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29506, Florence, South Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.81 percent of the residents in 29506 has some form of health insurance. 46.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.97 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 29506 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,354 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29506. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,151 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,955 health care providers accessible to residents in 29506, Florence, South Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Florence, SC (ZIP Code 29506)

Florence, South Carolina, a city steeped in history and Southern charm, also grapples with the realities of healthcare access and quality. This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 29506, focusing on physician availability, practice performance, technological integration, and mental health resources, ultimately constructing a “Breast Cancer Score” framework. This score aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to women in Florence, aiding in informed healthcare decisions.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Florence, the primary care landscape is a crucial determinant of early detection and proactive management. The physician-to-patient ratio in 29506 and the surrounding areas directly impacts access to crucial preventative screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Researching the current physician-to-patient ratio in this area is paramount to understanding the initial level of access.

Within the primary care environment, the presence of standout practices is a critical factor. Identifying practices known for their commitment to preventative care, particularly breast cancer screening, is essential. These practices often have robust systems for patient reminders, proactive screening protocols, and strong referral networks to specialists. Examining the patient reviews, accreditation status, and the practice's documented commitment to breast cancer awareness campaigns can help identify these standout practices. Furthermore, evaluating the practice's utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers is crucial for seamless care coordination.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialists, including oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, is paramount. The proximity of these specialists to the patient population significantly impacts treatment accessibility. The Breast Cancer Score must assess the concentration of these specialists within 29506 and the surrounding areas. This includes evaluating the number of specialists, their board certifications, and their experience in treating breast cancer. Moreover, the presence of comprehensive cancer centers with multidisciplinary teams, offering a range of services from diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, would significantly enhance the score.

Technological integration is transforming healthcare, and its impact on breast cancer care is undeniable. Telemedicine adoption is a key component of the Breast Cancer Score. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, consultations, and even remote monitoring of patients can improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the ease of access for patients is crucial. Additionally, the adoption of patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their care team, further enhances the score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but their importance cannot be overstated. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have profound psychological impacts, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. The Breast Cancer Score must assess the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the 29506 area. Evaluating the integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, is essential. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, provides invaluable emotional support for patients and their families.

The Breast Cancer Score should also consider the availability of financial assistance programs. Cancer treatment can be incredibly expensive, and financial barriers can prevent patients from accessing the care they need. Assessing the availability of programs that offer financial assistance for treatment, medications, and other related expenses is essential. This includes identifying local and national organizations that provide financial support and assessing the ease of access to these programs for patients in need.

Furthermore, the score should consider the quality of the local hospitals and cancer centers. The accreditation status of these facilities, their patient outcomes, and their commitment to research and innovation are all important factors. Evaluating the availability of advanced treatment options, such as clinical trials and cutting-edge therapies, can significantly impact the score. The presence of dedicated breast cancer centers with specialized staff and resources further enhances the quality of care.

Finally, the Breast Cancer Score should incorporate data on patient satisfaction. Patient reviews, surveys, and feedback provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Assessing patient satisfaction with their physicians, the staff, and the overall care they receive is crucial. This data can highlight areas for improvement and identify practices that are consistently providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

In conclusion, constructing a robust Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 29506 requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, practice performance, technological integration, mental health resources, financial assistance programs, hospital quality, and patient satisfaction. This analysis should not be a static assessment but rather a dynamic process, continuously updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. By understanding these factors, women in Florence can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improved access to quality breast cancer care.

To visualize and further analyze the geographical distribution of these healthcare resources, their accessibility, and the potential disparities within the Florence area, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and enabling more informed decision-making.