27252, Goldston, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27252, Goldston, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 74.85 percent of the residents in 27252 has some form of health insurance. 40.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.43 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 27252 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 299 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27252. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 267 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 144 health care providers accessible to residents in 27252, Goldston, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Goldston, NC (ZIP Code 27252)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 27252, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to offer residents a clear understanding of their healthcare landscape, empowering them to make informed decisions regarding their prostate health.

Goldston, North Carolina, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The relative isolation and demographic profile necessitate a tailored approach to evaluating prostate cancer care. This analysis will delve into the specifics of the area to offer a nuanced perspective.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for most healthcare needs, including prostate cancer screening and early detection. The availability of PCPs in Goldston is a critical factor. Data on physician-to-patient ratios provides a crucial metric. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) can indicate potential access challenges, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed care. Researching the actual ratio for 27252 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), and the American Medical Association (AMA) should be consulted. The analysis would then compare this ratio to state and national averages.

Furthermore, the types of PCPs available is important. Are there enough family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and geriatricians to serve the population? The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often provide primary care services, should also be considered.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices requires examining several factors. This includes the presence of board-certified urologists who specialize in prostate cancer treatment, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like MRI and PET scans, and the utilization of evidence-based treatment protocols. Assessing the quality of care also involves reviewing patient outcomes, such as survival rates and complication rates. These metrics are often difficult to obtain publicly, but information may be available through hospital reports or patient reviews.

The analysis should also consider the practice's commitment to patient education and support. Does the practice offer educational materials on prostate cancer prevention, screening, and treatment options? Do they provide support groups or resources for patients and their families?

**Telemedicine Adoption**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing travel time and costs. It can also facilitate consultations with specialists who may not be readily available in Goldston.

The analysis will examine the adoption of telemedicine by local practices. Do they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or other telehealth services? The availability of reliable internet access in the area is a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

**Mental Health Resources**

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care.

The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services in Goldston. Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, or therapists who specialize in treating patients with cancer? Are there support groups or counseling services available? The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also a positive sign.

**Specifics for Goldston (ZIP Code 27252)**

Due to the rural nature of Goldston, the specifics of the healthcare landscape are paramount. The analysis would need to identify the closest hospitals and medical centers and their respective services. The presence of community health centers or federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) should also be noted, as these often provide vital primary care services to underserved populations.

The analysis would also consider the demographics of Goldston. The age, race, and socioeconomic status of the population can influence healthcare needs and access. For example, a higher proportion of older adults may necessitate a greater focus on geriatric care and prostate cancer screening.

**Challenges and Opportunities**

Goldston faces several challenges in providing prostate cancer care. These include potential shortages of PCPs and specialists, limited access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and the need for improved mental health services.

However, there are also opportunities. The community could leverage telemedicine to expand access to care. Collaboration between local practices and larger medical centers could improve the availability of specialized services. Community outreach programs could raise awareness about prostate cancer and encourage early detection.

**Conclusion**

This Prostate Cancer Score analysis for Goldston, NC (ZIP Code 27252) aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. By understanding the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, residents can make informed decisions about their health.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Goldston and visualize the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis.

**Click here to explore interactive maps and gain deeper insights into the healthcare landscape of Goldston and surrounding areas with CartoChrome maps.**