29697, Williamston, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29697, Williamston, South Carolina is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.53 percent of the residents in 29697 has some form of health insurance. 36.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.89 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 29697 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,205 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29697. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,532 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,149 health care providers accessible to residents in 29697, Williamston, South Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Williamston, SC (ZIP Code 29697)

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of breast cancer care access and related factors within the Williamston, South Carolina (ZIP code 29697) area, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. This evaluation aims to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape concerning breast cancer care. The analysis is inherently limited by data availability and should be considered a starting point for further, more in-depth investigation.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is access to qualified medical professionals. In Williamston, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact, providing preventative screenings, referrals, and ongoing support. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to timely care. This impacts the ability to detect and treat breast cancer early. The analysis should involve researching the number of practicing PCPs in the area and comparing it to the population size of Williamston.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are the PCPs in Williamston actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, including oncologists and surgeons? Evaluating the practices' adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment is essential. Furthermore, the availability of specialized breast cancer care within a reasonable distance of Williamston is vital. This includes access to oncologists, breast surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center or a network of specialists in nearby cities like Greenville significantly improves access to specialized care.

The characteristics of local medical practices also influence the quality of care. Identifying standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer care is important. This involves looking for practices that offer patient-centered care, utilize advanced diagnostic tools, and actively participate in clinical trials. Practices that prioritize patient education and provide resources for navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment are also highly valued. These practices often foster a supportive environment for patients and contribute to improved outcomes.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by medical practices in Williamston is crucial. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and patient satisfaction with these services is important.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Mental health resources are essential for providing comprehensive care. The analysis should investigate the availability of mental health services in Williamston and the surrounding areas. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial for addressing the emotional needs of patients. Practices that offer on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

Another factor that should be considered is the demographics of the population in Williamston. Are there specific groups of people who are at higher risk of developing breast cancer? Are there any disparities in access to care based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status? Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to breast cancer care for all residents of Williamston.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of patient navigation services. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and provide support throughout the treatment process. The presence of patient navigators can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on patients.

Finally, the analysis should consider the availability of resources for financial assistance. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients may struggle to afford the cost of care. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as grants and charitable organizations, can help patients access the care they need.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care in Williamston (ZIP code 29697) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other relevant factors. This preliminary analysis provides a foundation for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. The findings can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better access to breast cancer care for the residents of Williamston.

For a deeper dive into the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and patient demographics in Williamston, SC, and beyond, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize and analyze the complex data points that influence healthcare access, allowing for a more informed understanding of the healthcare landscape.