29520, Cheraw, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29520, Cheraw, South Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.86 percent of the residents in 29520 has some form of health insurance. 45.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.02 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 29520 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,834 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29520. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,505 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,332 health care providers accessible to residents in 29520, Cheraw, South Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Cheraw, SC (ZIP Code 29520)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Cheraw, South Carolina (ZIP code 29520) requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when assessing its capacity to address breast cancer concerns. This analysis will provide a 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The aim is to offer a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to breast cancer detection, treatment, and support.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system is the availability of accessible primary care. In Cheraw, assessing this involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the population within the 29520 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates potential challenges in accessing timely appointments for routine checkups, screenings, and referrals – crucial steps in early breast cancer detection. Data on wait times for appointments, both for routine care and for specialized consultations, is also essential. Longer wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment, impacting patient outcomes. The presence of urgent care clinics and their capacity to handle primary care needs further influences the overall score.

Determining a 'Breast Cancer Score' also necessitates an examination of the specific practices and their approaches to breast cancer care. Identifying 'standout practices' involves evaluating several factors. Does the practice offer mammography services on-site or have established partnerships with local imaging centers? Are they actively involved in promoting breast cancer awareness and screening programs within the community? Do they have a dedicated care coordinator or nurse navigator to guide patients through the diagnostic and treatment process? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to these aspects would receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Examining the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered virtually, and patient satisfaction with these services will be a key factor in the scoring. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly for breast cancer-related follow-up and support, will receive a higher score, as they provide greater convenience and accessibility.

The integration of mental health resources is also crucial. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the local healthcare system is essential. Assessing the extent to which primary care practices and cancer care specialists collaborate with mental health providers, the ease with which patients can access these services, and the availability of support groups or other mental health resources will be considered. Practices that actively address the mental health needs of their patients will be highly valued.

A comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' for Cheraw, SC, also demands an understanding of the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of PCPs practicing within the 29520 ZIP code and the surrounding areas is essential. Comparing this number to the local population provides a ratio that indicates the potential burden on each physician. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests better access to care, while a high ratio may indicate longer wait times and potential challenges in obtaining timely appointments. This ratio will be a major factor in determining the overall score.

Specific practices within the Cheraw area require individual assessment. One example is McLeod Health Cheraw. This hospital and its associated clinics are central to the healthcare ecosystem. Evaluating the services offered by McLeod Health Cheraw, including its mammography capabilities, its partnerships with oncologists and surgeons, and its commitment to patient education and support programs, is crucial. Does McLeod Health Cheraw have a dedicated breast cancer center or program? Does it participate in clinical trials? The answers to these questions will significantly influence the score assigned to this practice and the overall score for the region.

Beyond the immediate healthcare providers, it is important to consider the broader healthcare infrastructure. The availability of specialized services, such as surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, is crucial. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable distance, and the ease with which patients can access their services, will impact the score. This includes assessing the travel time to the nearest cancer centers and the availability of transportation assistance for patients who need it.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is not just about the availability of medical services; it also encompasses the quality of care. This includes assessing patient satisfaction with the care they receive. Gathering data on patient experiences, including their perceptions of the communication skills of their physicians, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall quality of care, is crucial. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients will receive a higher score.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in Cheraw, SC (29520) requires a detailed assessment of multiple factors. Primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to the overall 'Breast Cancer Score'. While a precise numerical score cannot be provided without detailed, up-to-the-minute data, the framework outlined above provides a clear methodology for evaluating the local healthcare system's capacity to address breast cancer concerns.

For a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cheraw and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and access to care metrics, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. They offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in the region.