29510, Andrews, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29510, Andrews, South Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.77 percent of the residents in 29510 has some form of health insurance. 50.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.69 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 29510 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,478 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29510. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,631 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 198 health care providers accessible to residents in 29510, Andrews, South Carolina.

The following analysis provides a nuanced perspective on breast cancer care within ZIP code 29510 (Andrews, South Carolina) and the broader availability of primary care services, aiming to assess the landscape through a "Breast Cancer Score" lens. This score, though not a formally recognized metric, will evaluate various factors contributing to the quality and accessibility of care, ultimately informing patient decision-making.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system rests on robust primary care. In Andrews, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio, where too few PCPs serve a large population, can lead to delayed diagnoses, insufficient preventative screenings, and overall poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating more PCPs per capita, generally suggests better access to care, facilitating earlier detection and treatment. Assessing the specific physician-to-patient ratio in Andrews is paramount to understanding the foundation upon which breast cancer care is built. Data from local and state health authorities must be consulted to determine this ratio accurately.

The presence of established primary care practices within the 29510 ZIP code is another key element. These practices serve as the initial point of contact for patients, providing crucial preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and facilitating referrals to specialists when necessary. The size and capacity of these practices, including the number of physicians, support staff, and available appointment slots, directly impact access to care. The ability of these practices to offer comprehensive services, including routine check-ups, health education, and coordination of care, further strengthens their role in breast cancer prevention and early detection.

Beyond the availability of primary care, the presence and accessibility of specialists are critical. Oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and other specialists play a vital role in diagnosing and treating breast cancer. The proximity of these specialists to the Andrews community significantly influences the timeliness of care. Long travel distances can create barriers to accessing these essential services, leading to delays in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The presence of a local hospital or medical center with a dedicated oncology department is a strong indicator of a well-supported breast cancer care system.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, has the potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Andrews. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care physicians and specialists in the area reflects their commitment to patient convenience and the utilization of modern technology. This can be assessed by examining the availability of virtual appointment options, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing care pathways.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but vital component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is essential. These professionals can provide support and guidance to patients navigating the emotional challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the availability of these resources, including the number of mental health professionals, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services to patients in the 29510 ZIP code, is crucial.

Standout practices within the Andrews area deserve specific recognition. These practices may demonstrate exceptional patient care, innovative approaches to treatment, or a strong commitment to community outreach. Identifying these practices involves evaluating their patient satisfaction scores, their use of evidence-based practices, and their participation in community health initiatives. Examples of standout practices might include those that offer comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, facilitate access to clinical trials, or provide robust patient support services.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support groups and patient education resources. Support groups provide a valuable platform for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, sharing experiences, and offering mutual support. Patient education resources, such as pamphlets, online materials, and educational workshops, empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. The presence of these resources within the Andrews community demonstrates a commitment to patient-centered care and a holistic approach to breast cancer treatment.

Furthermore, the score should consider the availability of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can create significant stress for patients. The availability of programs that help patients cover the costs of treatment, such as medications, diagnostic tests, and transportation, is a critical factor. This includes assessing the presence of local and national organizations that offer financial assistance, as well as the willingness of local healthcare providers to assist patients in navigating these programs.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for the 29510 ZIP code and the primary care landscape in Andrews would be a composite of all the factors mentioned above. It would be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare environment. Regularly updating this score would be vital to ensure its continued relevance. This analysis, therefore, serves as a starting point, highlighting the critical components of a robust breast cancer care system.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Andrews, including physician locations, specialist availability, and proximity to essential services, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, enabling patients and healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about care.