27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.54 percent of the residents in 27106 has some form of health insurance. 32.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.88 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 27106 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,372 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27106. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,751 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,553 health care providers accessible to residents in 27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Winston Salem (ZIP Code 27106)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within the 27106 ZIP code, focusing on physician availability, quality of care, and accessibility of resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for patient outcomes and overall well-being. The analysis will also touch upon the broader context of primary care availability in Winston Salem, as it significantly impacts early detection and ongoing management of prostate cancer.

The core of this evaluation rests on assessing the availability of qualified physicians specializing in urology and oncology within the specified geographic area. This involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio, a critical indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, signifying fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with information from insurance provider networks, will be used to estimate these ratios, acknowledging the inherent limitations in publicly available data.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves analyzing the credentials and experience of physicians, including board certifications and subspecialty training in areas like robotic surgery or radiation oncology. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, comprising urologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and support staff, is also a key indicator of comprehensive care. Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, and the utilization of evidence-based treatment protocols.

Standout practices within the 27106 ZIP code will be identified based on these criteria. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, technological innovation, and positive patient outcomes will be highlighted. This might involve recognizing practices with a strong track record of early detection, successful treatment outcomes, and patient satisfaction. The analysis will also assess the adoption of innovative technologies, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques and advanced radiation therapy modalities.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor, especially in the context of prostate cancer care. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, including increased access to specialists, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. It can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to educational resources. The analysis will examine the extent to which physicians in the 27106 ZIP code utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered remotely, and the impact of telemedicine on patient access and convenience.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a vital component of comprehensive prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, within the 27106 ZIP code. It will also consider the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, ensuring that patients have access to the support they need to cope with the challenges of their illness.

Primary care availability in Winston Salem, while not directly within the 27106 ZIP code, significantly impacts prostate cancer care. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in early detection through routine screenings and referrals to specialists. The analysis will examine the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care providers in Winston Salem, the availability of preventative services, and the efficiency of referral pathways to urologists and oncologists. A strong primary care infrastructure is essential for ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.

The score will be based on a weighted system, assigning points to each of the aforementioned factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, quality of care indicators, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources will all contribute to the overall score. The final score will provide a relative assessment of the prostate cancer care landscape within the 27106 ZIP code, allowing patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The analysis will also consider the presence of community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and patient advocacy organizations. These resources can provide valuable support and information to patients and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of prostate cancer care.

The evaluation will also consider the cost of care, including the availability of affordable treatment options and financial assistance programs. Prostate cancer treatment can be expensive, and access to financial resources is crucial for ensuring that patients can receive the care they need without undue financial burden.

The overall goal is to provide a comprehensive and objective assessment of the prostate cancer care landscape in the 27106 ZIP code. This analysis will empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare, and it will also highlight areas where improvements are needed.

The analysis is a snapshot in time. Healthcare is constantly evolving. New technologies, treatment options, and best practices emerge regularly. The information presented here should be considered in conjunction with consultation with healthcare professionals.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within the 27106 ZIP code and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's mapping platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Winston Salem.