27330, Sanford, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27330, Sanford, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.45 percent of the residents in 27330 has some form of health insurance. 36.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.22 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 27330 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,650 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27330. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,644 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,170 health care providers accessible to residents in 27330, Sanford, North Carolina.

Prostate cancer screening and treatment within Sanford, North Carolina (ZIP code 27330) requires a multi-faceted assessment. This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs), their approach to prostate health, and the availability of resources to support patients navigating this critical health concern. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, considering factors beyond simple physician counts, to paint a clearer picture of the quality of care accessible to residents.

The initial consideration is primary care physician availability. Sanford, as a relatively small city, may present challenges in physician-to-patient ratios. The ideal scenario involves a sufficient number of PCPs to ensure timely access to appointments and preventative screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs) for men over a certain age, or those with risk factors. Assessing this ratio involves comparing the number of PCPs practicing within the 27330 ZIP code to the total population of the area. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can be utilized for this calculation. A low physician-to-patient ratio could indicate potential delays in care, while a high ratio might suggest an oversupply.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts prostate cancer outcomes. Identifying standout practices requires examining several indicators. One crucial aspect is the practice’s commitment to preventative care. This includes the proactive screening of eligible patients for prostate cancer, following established guidelines from organizations like the American Urological Association (AUA) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Practices demonstrating a strong focus on preventative care will likely have well-defined protocols for PSA testing, DREs, and patient education regarding risk factors and early detection.

Another critical factor is the practice's integration of technology, especially telemedicine. The adoption of telehealth services has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Practices that offer telemedicine options can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those residing in more remote areas of the ZIP code. This also allows for more frequent communication and monitoring of patients, which is crucial for managing prostate cancer.

Furthermore, the availability of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but vital component of prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can have a significant impact on a patient’s emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common among cancer patients. Primary care practices that have established partnerships with mental health professionals, or that offer in-house counseling services, are better equipped to support their patients throughout their cancer journey. This integrated approach to care can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

To evaluate the quality of care, it is important to consider the experience and expertise of the physicians themselves. The board certifications and specializations of the PCPs in the area should be examined. While not all PCPs are specialists in urology, a practice that has physicians with advanced training or a strong interest in men's health may be better equipped to address prostate cancer concerns. This could involve a physician who has a specific focus on men's health, or a practice that regularly collaborates with urologists and oncologists.

Additionally, patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Online platforms such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews offer a glimpse into patient satisfaction, communication styles, and the overall quality of care provided by individual physicians and practices. While individual reviews should be considered with caution, a consistent pattern of positive or negative feedback can reveal valuable information about the strengths and weaknesses of a particular practice.

The analysis also needs to take into account the availability of specialized care. While PCPs are the first point of contact for prostate cancer screening and initial evaluation, patients often require referral to urologists for further diagnosis and treatment. The proximity and accessibility of urology practices within or near the 27330 ZIP code are crucial. This includes the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and ultrasound, as well as access to a range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, preventative care protocols, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, physician expertise, patient reviews, and access to specialized care – provides a comprehensive framework for assessing the quality of prostate cancer care in Sanford. The goal is to identify practices that prioritize preventative care, provide comprehensive support to patients, and offer access to the latest diagnostic and treatment options. This holistic approach provides a more accurate picture of the healthcare landscape than simply counting physicians.

Finally, it is important to note that this analysis is based on publicly available information and is intended to provide a general overview. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the specific practices and resources available may change over time. For the most up-to-date and detailed information, it is always recommended to consult with healthcare professionals and conduct thorough research.

To further explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and other relevant data points within the 27330 ZIP code and surrounding areas, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to analyze the spatial relationships between physicians, patients, and resources.