27341, Seagrove, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27341, Seagrove, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.28 percent of the residents in 27341 has some form of health insurance. 29.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.97 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 27341 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27341. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 600 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 226 health care providers accessible to residents in 27341, Seagrove, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27341 & Primary Care Availability in Seagrove**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly regarding prostate cancer care within ZIP code 27341 (likely encompassing the Seagrove area) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in determining a 'Prostate Cancer Score' for the region.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can suggest potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, comprehensive care, and personalized attention. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and local county health departments must be consulted to determine the precise ratio for primary care physicians, urologists, and oncologists within the specified ZIP code and its surrounding areas. This data should be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of medical professionals. A significantly higher ratio than the norm could negatively impact the 'Prostate Cancer Score'.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. This involves researching local healthcare providers, including their specializations, patient reviews, and accreditations. Practices with board-certified urologists, oncologists specializing in prostate cancer, and access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies (such as MRI, robotic surgery, and radiation therapy) would contribute positively to the score. Furthermore, practices with a strong focus on patient education, support groups, and comprehensive care coordination would be highly valued. Patient testimonials and physician peer reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Seagrove. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate remote consultations for follow-up appointments and medication management. Practices that offer telemedicine services, especially for prostate cancer screening, education, and post-treatment care, would receive a higher score. The availability of telehealth platforms, the ease of scheduling virtual appointments, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan are all key considerations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical in prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the community is essential. Practices that offer or partner with mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and access to mental health medications, would enhance the 'Prostate Cancer Score'. The integration of mental health screenings and referrals into the standard care pathway is also a positive factor.

Evaluating the overall quality of care requires considering several factors. These include the availability of screening programs, such as PSA testing and digital rectal exams; the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines; the practice's adherence to quality metrics; and the patient's experience with the healthcare system. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate positive patient outcomes would receive a higher score. The availability of patient navigators to guide patients through the complex healthcare system is also a valuable asset.

Specifics are vital. For example, if a particular practice in ZIP code 27341, such as "Seagrove Urology Associates," has a board-certified urologist with a specialty in robotic surgery and offers telemedicine consultations for follow-up appointments, this would significantly boost the 'Prostate Cancer Score'. Conversely, if there is a shortage of urologists in the area, leading to long wait times for appointments, this would negatively impact the score. The availability of mental health support groups in the community or partnerships with local mental health providers would also be noted.

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the overall healthcare environment. A high score indicates a region with accessible, high-quality prostate cancer care, while a low score suggests potential challenges in accessing necessary services. This score can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to allocate resources effectively.

The assessment should also consider the demographics of the population served. The prevalence of prostate cancer varies among different ethnic groups, and healthcare providers should be aware of these disparities and tailor their services accordingly. Access to culturally competent care, including language services and culturally sensitive educational materials, is an important factor in evaluating the quality of care.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of financial assistance programs and insurance coverage options. Prostate cancer treatment can be expensive, and patients may need help navigating the financial aspects of their care. Practices that offer financial counseling or partner with organizations that provide financial assistance would receive a higher score. The acceptance of a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is also essential.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Seagrove is equally important. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, and they play a crucial role in screening for prostate cancer and referring patients to specialists. The availability of primary care physicians, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the quality of primary care services are all important factors in the overall healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Prostate Cancer Score' for doctors in ZIP code 27341 and primary care availability in Seagrove requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall quality of care. This analysis should consider specific details about local providers, patient experiences, and the availability of support services.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Seagrove, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and patient demographics, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility and quality of prostate cancer care in your community.