27235, Colfax, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27235, Colfax, North Carolina is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.31 percent of the residents in 27235 has some form of health insurance. 28.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.64 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 27235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 818 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27235. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,332 health care providers accessible to residents in 27235, Colfax, North Carolina.

Prostate cancer screening and treatment access are crucial aspects of men's health, and evaluating these factors within a specific geographic area provides valuable insights. This analysis focuses on the landscape of prostate cancer care in ZIP code 27235 (Colfax, North Carolina), considering factors like physician availability, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

Assessing the availability of urologists and primary care physicians (PCPs) is the initial step. Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can be cross-referenced to estimate these ratios for 27235. This involves identifying the number of licensed urologists and PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and comparing this number to the population of Colfax. A comprehensive analysis would also consider the age and health profile of the population, as older individuals and those with pre-existing conditions often require more frequent medical attention.

Primary care availability is inextricably linked to prostate cancer care. PCPs play a vital role in early detection through screening, such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exams (DRE). They also provide referrals to urologists for further evaluation and treatment. The presence of a robust primary care infrastructure in Colfax is therefore essential. This includes not only the number of PCPs but also the accessibility of their practices. Factors like office hours, insurance acceptance, and the availability of same-day appointments contribute to access.

Standout practices within the area can be identified through patient reviews, online ratings, and professional recognition. These practices often demonstrate excellence in various areas, including patient communication, diagnostic accuracy, and treatment outcomes. Examining their approaches to prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and management can offer valuable insights. Some practices may have implemented advanced technologies, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques or advanced imaging modalities, which can improve patient outcomes and reduce recovery times.

Telemedicine adoption represents another critical factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The availability of virtual consultations with urologists and PCPs can facilitate early detection, follow-up care, and medication management. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption in 27235 involves assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered through telemedicine, and the technological infrastructure available to support these services.

Mental health resources are also an important consideration. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact on patients, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is crucial for supporting patients' well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services within the community is essential. Collaboration between urologists, PCPs, and mental health professionals can ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs.

Specific data points for 27235 would include the names and locations of urology practices and primary care clinics. Identifying the number of physicians at each practice and their specialties would be vital. Researching the types of insurance accepted by each practice and clinic would provide information on accessibility. Examining the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as imaging and biopsies, would further enhance the analysis. Investigating the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals would provide insights into the use of technology to enhance patient care.

The analysis should also consider the presence of any community health initiatives or programs focused on prostate cancer awareness, screening, and education. These programs can play a significant role in promoting early detection and improving patient outcomes. The availability of educational materials, support groups, and outreach events can empower individuals to take proactive steps in managing their health.

Furthermore, it's important to examine the demographics of the population in 27235. Factors like age, race, and socioeconomic status can influence the risk of prostate cancer and access to care. Understanding the demographic profile of the community can help identify potential disparities in care and inform targeted interventions.

Gathering information on the quality of care is also important. This can involve reviewing patient satisfaction surveys, analyzing clinical outcomes data, and examining adherence to evidence-based guidelines. The use of quality metrics, such as the percentage of patients screened for prostate cancer or the time to diagnosis, can provide insights into the effectiveness of care.

To compile all of this information, multiple sources would be used. These sources include: the North Carolina Medical Board, the U.S. Census Bureau, insurance provider directories, online physician directories, patient review websites (e.g., Healthgrades, Vitals), and local hospital websites. Data from these sources would be carefully compiled, analyzed, and cross-referenced to ensure accuracy and completeness.

In conclusion, the prostate cancer care landscape in 27235 is multifaceted, influenced by physician availability, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. A thorough analysis, incorporating specific data points and considering the demographic profile of the community, is essential for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This information can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance access to high-quality prostate cancer care for all residents of Colfax.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in 27235 and visualize the data discussed, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can help you visualize physician locations, primary care availability, and other relevant data points, providing a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.