27332, Sanford, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27332, Sanford, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.68 percent of the residents in 27332 has some form of health insurance. 35.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.04 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 27332 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,896 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27332. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,079 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 885 health care providers accessible to residents in 27332, Sanford, North Carolina.

The analysis below provides a comprehensive assessment of prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 27332 (Sanford, North Carolina) and the broader availability of primary care resources, focusing on factors relevant to patient outcomes and access. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment journey.

Sanford, North Carolina, presents a unique healthcare landscape, influenced by its location and demographic composition. Evaluating prostate cancer care necessitates a multi-faceted approach, looking beyond the simple presence of urologists and oncologists. It requires a deep dive into the interconnectedness of primary care, specialist availability, and supportive services.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a foundational metric. A high ratio of patients per primary care physician can lead to delayed diagnoses and less personalized follow-up care. In Sanford, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the early detection and management of prostate cancer. A robust primary care network is essential for screening programs, patient education, and initial referrals to specialists. Data on physician density within the 27332 ZIP code, compared to state and national averages, is critical. A shortage of primary care physicians can exacerbate the challenges faced by patients, particularly those in underserved communities.

Standout practices in Sanford are those that excel in patient-centered care. This includes practices that offer comprehensive services, from initial screening to post-treatment follow-up. These practices often integrate multiple specialists, such as urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists, within a single network, streamlining the patient journey. The presence of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, is also a key indicator of a practice's commitment to providing high-quality care. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research demonstrate a commitment to innovation and staying at the forefront of prostate cancer treatment.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. The ability to remotely connect with physicians can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care. Examining the percentage of practices offering telemedicine services and the types of services provided (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring of side effects) is essential.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can have a significant emotional impact on patients and their families. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care models are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients. This includes access to therapists, support groups, and other resources that can help patients cope with the psychological effects of their diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the availability of these resources and the level of integration with medical care is critical.

Analyzing the specific practices within the 27332 ZIP code requires a detailed investigation. This involves examining the services offered by each practice, the qualifications of the physicians, and the patient experience. Publicly available data, such as physician profiles, patient reviews, and practice websites, can provide valuable insights. Additionally, contacting practices directly to inquire about their services and approach to patient care is recommended.

Primary care availability in Sanford is a significant factor in the overall prostate cancer care landscape. A strong primary care network is essential for early detection, patient education, and referral to specialists. Assessing the number of primary care physicians, the patient-to-physician ratio, and the accessibility of primary care services is crucial. This includes examining the availability of appointments, the acceptance of insurance plans, and the geographic distribution of primary care practices.

The integration of mental health services is another important aspect. Prostate cancer can have a significant emotional impact on patients, and access to mental health support is essential. Practices that offer counseling, support groups, and other mental health resources are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients.

In conclusion, evaluating prostate cancer care in Sanford, NC, requires a comprehensive approach that considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement. The goal is to empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sanford, NC, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.