29543, Fork, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29543, Fork, South Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.67 percent of the residents in 29543 has some form of health insurance. 36.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.87 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 29543 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 58 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29543. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 113 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 970 health care providers accessible to residents in 29543, Fork, South Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 29543 & Primary Care in Fork

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 29543, focusing on the critical role of primary care providers (PCPs) and their impact on early detection and patient outcomes. The geographic focus extends to the broader community of Fork, assessing the resources available and identifying potential areas for improvement. This assessment utilizes a "Breast Cancer Score," a hypothetical metric incorporating various factors, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon robust primary care. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screening recommendations, risk assessments, and referrals to specialists. A high-quality PCP network ensures early detection, crucial for successful treatment. In the context of Fork and ZIP Code 29543, the "Breast Cancer Score" considers the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, reflecting more physicians per capita, generally indicates better access to care. This ratio is further analyzed by examining the types of PCPs available: family medicine, internal medicine, and, where present, specialized women's health providers.

Standout practices within the area are identified by evaluating several factors. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, including actively promoting mammogram screenings and providing patient education materials, score higher. The efficiency of appointment scheduling, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns, and the overall patient experience are also considered. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, enabling seamless information sharing with specialists, are viewed favorably. This element of the score considers the practice's ability to integrate with local hospitals and imaging centers.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant component of the "Breast Cancer Score." The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or initial consultations for those with mobility issues, enhances access to care. Practices that embrace telemedicine, providing convenient and accessible care options, receive a higher score. The score also considers the technological infrastructure of the practices, including the availability of secure video conferencing platforms and patient portals for communication.

Mental health resources play a critical, often overlooked, role in breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the availability of mental health support services within the primary care network and the broader community. This includes the presence of on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, and access to support groups. The score also takes into account the availability of resources that address the financial and social challenges often associated with a breast cancer diagnosis.

Specific examples of practices within ZIP Code 29543 and the surrounding area are analyzed to illustrate the scoring methodology. For instance, a practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio, offering extended hours, and actively promoting mammogram screenings would likely receive a high score. Conversely, a practice with a high patient load, limited screening promotion, and no apparent mental health support would receive a lower score. The analysis also considers the proximity of specialists, such as oncologists and breast surgeons, to the primary care network. A network with strong referral pathways to these specialists receives a higher score.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also examines the availability of resources outside of the primary care setting. This includes the presence of local hospitals with comprehensive breast cancer centers, the availability of mobile mammography units, and the existence of community-based support organizations. The analysis considers the accessibility of these resources, including transportation options for patients who may have limited mobility. The score also assesses the diversity of the healthcare workforce, ensuring that patients have access to providers who understand their cultural and linguistic needs.

In the broader community of Fork, the analysis considers the overall healthcare infrastructure. This includes the availability of emergency services, the presence of community health centers, and the level of health insurance coverage among the population. The analysis also considers the socioeconomic factors that may impact access to care, such as poverty rates and educational attainment levels. A community with a strong healthcare infrastructure and a high level of social support generally receives a higher score.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static measure; it is a dynamic assessment that evolves over time. The score is updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the introduction of new technologies, the expansion of healthcare services, and the evolving needs of the community. The score is also used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for policies that promote better breast cancer care.

The analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 29543 and the surrounding area. By considering the various factors that impact access to care, the analysis provides valuable insights for patients, providers, and policymakers. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a tool for assessing the quality of care, identifying areas for improvement, and promoting better outcomes for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with breast cancer. The goal is to empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and to advocate for the resources they need to thrive.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we invite you to explore the power of spatial analysis. **Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 29543 and Fork.**