27288, Eden, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27288, Eden, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.18 percent of the residents in 27288 has some form of health insurance. 45.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.56 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 27288 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,648 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27288. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,507 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 749 health care providers accessible to residents in 27288, Eden, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Eden, NC (ZIP Code 27288)

Analyzing the prostate cancer landscape in Eden, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27288) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) but also the broader healthcare infrastructure supporting early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on key factors impacting patient outcomes within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any effective prostate cancer screening and management program rests on accessible primary care. In Eden, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the average number of patients per PCP is essential. A higher ratio, indicating a potential shortage of PCPs, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs). This delay can translate to later-stage diagnoses, impacting treatment options and overall survival rates. The impact is compounded by the fact that Eden is a rural community, which often faces challenges in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Assessing the practices within the 27288 ZIP code requires evaluating their commitment to preventative care, including routine PSA testing for men over 50 (or earlier for those with risk factors like family history or African-American ethnicity). Are these practices proactively educating patients about prostate cancer risks and the importance of early detection? Do they have systems in place to remind patients of upcoming screenings? These factors significantly influence the "Prostate Cancer Score."

Identifying standout practices in Eden involves recognizing those that demonstrate a strong commitment to patient-centered care. This includes practices that: offer convenient appointment scheduling; have a well-trained and compassionate staff; and actively engage patients in their healthcare decisions. Practices that are part of larger healthcare systems or networks may have access to more resources and specialists, which can further enhance patient care. This is particularly relevant in prostate cancer, where urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists play crucial roles in diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption represents another crucial element of the score. The ability to access healthcare remotely can be a game-changer, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and even mental health professionals. This can reduce travel burdens, improve access to care for those with mobility limitations, and provide timely support for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it seamlessly into their workflows are likely to achieve a higher "Prostate Cancer Score."

The mental health of patients undergoing prostate cancer treatment is often overlooked, yet it is an integral part of overall well-being. A cancer diagnosis and its associated treatments can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources within the Eden community is therefore a vital component of the "Prostate Cancer Score." Does the area have access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups? Are these resources readily accessible and affordable? Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients, either through in-house services or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

The presence of local urologists and access to specialized cancer care facilities also significantly influence the score. The ability to receive prompt and expert diagnosis and treatment is crucial for optimal outcomes. The proximity of these specialists and facilities, along with their reputation and experience, directly impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score." This includes the availability of advanced treatment modalities like radiation therapy and robotic surgery.

Furthermore, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Eden, including the presence of hospitals, diagnostic centers, and pharmacies, contributes to the score. A well-coordinated healthcare system ensures that patients can access the full range of services they need, from initial screening to post-treatment follow-up.

In conclusion, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Eden, NC (ZIP Code 27288) is a complex metric that reflects the interplay of numerous factors. While precise figures and rankings require detailed data analysis, the key elements include: PCP availability and quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialists and cancer care facilities, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. The practices that excel in these areas are most likely to provide the best possible care for men facing the challenges of prostate cancer.

For a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Eden, NC, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and hospital proximity, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care within the 27288 ZIP code and beyond, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.