27568, Pine Level, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27568, Pine Level, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.91 percent of the residents in 27568 has some form of health insurance. 43.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.03 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 27568 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 459 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27568. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,285 health care providers accessible to residents in 27568, Pine Level, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Pine Level, NC (ZIP Code 27568)

Analyzing the prostate cancer landscape within Pine Level, North Carolina (ZIP code 27568) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors impacting early detection, treatment accessibility, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to men in this community, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes. This is not a ranking of doctors in the area but rather an analysis of the conditions that impact the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.

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

A cornerstone of prostate cancer care is consistent access to primary care physicians (PCPs). Early detection relies heavily on regular check-ups, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings and digital rectal exams (DREs). In Pine Level, assessing primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reflects the number of residents served by each PCP. A higher ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, leading to delayed screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board, the US Census Bureau, and local health departments can be used to estimate the physician-to-patient ratio within the 27568 ZIP code. Further research is required to determine the exact ratio and whether it meets the needs of the population.

The geographic distribution of PCPs is also critical. Are the primary care providers concentrated in one area, or are they spread throughout the community? This affects access for residents in more rural areas. Transportation options, especially for elderly patients, are also a factor. Public transportation options and ride-sharing services can be considered.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

While a comprehensive ranking of individual practices is beyond the scope of this analysis, identifying standout practices within Pine Level is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to proactive prostate cancer screening and patient education. They might be recognized for offering extended hours, employing advanced diagnostic tools, or participating in community outreach programs.

To identify these practices, several factors can be considered. First, the practice’s patient volume and the number of PSA screenings performed annually can be analyzed. Second, the practice’s use of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can be assessed. EHRs facilitate efficient communication and coordination of care, while patient portals empower individuals to access their medical information and communicate with their providers. Third, the practice's engagement in community outreach programs, such as health fairs or educational seminars, can be considered.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Implications:**

Telemedicine offers a valuable solution to healthcare accessibility challenges, particularly in rural areas like Pine Level. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a key indicator of their commitment to providing convenient and accessible care.

Telemedicine can be used for various aspects of prostate cancer care, including initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. It can also be used to connect patients with specialists located outside of Pine Level, expanding their access to expertise. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual consultations, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing workflows.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance:**

A prostate cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common among men with prostate cancer. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care.

Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves examining the presence of licensed therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists in the Pine Level area. It also involves evaluating the availability of support groups, educational materials, and mental health services offered by local hospitals and clinics. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices can also be considered.

**Specifics of the 27568 ZIP Code:**

To accurately assess the prostate cancer landscape in Pine Level, specific data is needed. This includes the number of PCPs practicing within the 27568 ZIP code, the number of urologists, and the availability of diagnostic imaging services such as MRI and ultrasound. Information about the local hospital, Johnston Health, can be assessed. The hospital's cancer center, if any, would be a significant factor. Data on the prevalence of prostate cancer in the area, including incidence and mortality rates, is also essential.

**The Value of Data and Mapping:**

Analyzing the prostate cancer landscape in Pine Level requires a data-driven approach. Gathering and analyzing data on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other relevant factors is critical. This information can then be used to identify areas of strength and weakness in the local healthcare system.

Data visualization tools, such as CartoChrome maps, can be used to create interactive maps that display key data points. These maps can help healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents understand the distribution of resources and identify areas where improvements are needed.

**Conclusion:**

Improving prostate cancer outcomes in Pine Level requires a collaborative effort. This includes increasing access to primary care, promoting early detection through screening, expanding telemedicine adoption, and ensuring access to mental health resources. By addressing these factors, the community can work toward providing comprehensive and compassionate care for men affected by prostate cancer.

**Call to Action:**

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