27207, Bear Creek, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27207, Bear Creek, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.28 percent of the residents in 27207 has some form of health insurance. 42.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.18 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 27207 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 550 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27207. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 960 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 93 health care providers accessible to residents in 27207, Bear Creek, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: 27207 & Bear Creek Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning prostate cancer screening and primary care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will explore the landscape within ZIP Code 27207, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of technology, while also considering the broader context of primary care availability in the neighboring community of Bear Creek. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment, ultimately informing residents and healthcare providers.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment rests on the availability of physicians. In ZIP Code 27207, determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources such as the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. This data, however, is often aggregated and can be challenging to interpret accurately at the ZIP code level. General estimates, based on county-level information, may suggest a moderate physician density, but this can be misleading. The presence of specialists, particularly urologists, is crucial for prostate cancer care. A low ratio of urologists to the population would negatively impact the Prostate Cancer Score. The score is also affected by the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), who are the first point of contact for screening and referrals.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of medical practices in 27207 significantly influence the quality of care. Larger practices, often associated with hospital systems, may offer a broader range of services, including advanced imaging and specialized treatments. Smaller, independent practices might provide more personalized care but could have limited resources. The Prostate Cancer Score would be higher for practices with a strong focus on preventative care, including proactive screening programs for prostate cancer. Practices that actively utilize evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer management, such as those recommended by the American Urological Association, would also receive a higher score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, allowing patients to access care remotely, would contribute positively to the Prostate Cancer Score. This is especially important for patients who may have mobility issues or live in rural areas. The ability to receive test results and discuss treatment plans virtually enhances patient convenience and potentially improves adherence to treatment protocols.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for patients facing a cancer diagnosis. Prostate cancer can have a significant psychological impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Prostate Cancer Score will be higher for practices that offer or have readily available access to mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care. Integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan is essential for holistic patient care.

Considering the primary care landscape in Bear Creek is essential for a comprehensive assessment. While outside the immediate ZIP code, residents of 27207 may seek primary care in Bear Creek. The availability of PCPs in Bear Creek, the average wait times for appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans directly impact the accessibility of healthcare for residents of 27207. A shortage of PCPs or limited insurance acceptance in Bear Creek would negatively affect the overall Prostate Cancer Score for the region.

Standout practices within 27207 and those serving Bear Creek deserve specific mention. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in prostate cancer care, preventative medicine, and patient experience is critical. These practices often have a higher concentration of board-certified physicians, utilize advanced technologies, and actively participate in community outreach programs. They are also likely to have robust patient education materials and a commitment to continuous quality improvement. Identifying these practices and highlighting their best practices can serve as a model for other healthcare providers in the area.

The quality of prostate cancer screening is another key factor. Practices that offer convenient and accessible screening options, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs), would receive a higher score. Furthermore, practices that educate patients about the risks and benefits of screening, and tailor their recommendations based on individual patient factors (age, family history, race), demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. The score is also affected by the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and ultrasound.

The availability of support services is also a crucial aspect of the Prostate Cancer Score. Practices that offer patient navigators, support groups, and educational resources for patients and their families would receive a higher score. These services can help patients navigate the complexities of cancer treatment, cope with the emotional challenges of the disease, and make informed decisions about their care.

In conclusion, assessing the Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP Code 27207 and considering the impact of primary care availability in Bear Creek requires a detailed examination of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the quality of screening and support services. This analysis underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach to evaluating healthcare quality.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in your area, including physician locations, practice details, and service availability, we encourage you to utilize the interactive mapping tools offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to easily identify and compare practices in your community.