27574, Roxboro, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27574, Roxboro, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.21 percent of the residents in 27574 has some form of health insurance. 38.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.80 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 27574 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,822 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27574. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,229 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 561 health care providers accessible to residents in 27574, Roxboro, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Roxboro, NC (ZIP Code 27574)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 27574, Roxboro, North Carolina, focusing on physician availability, primary care access, and related resources. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment for individuals concerned about prostate health.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Roxboro, evaluating primary care availability is crucial. This includes assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita, the average wait times for appointments, and the acceptance of new patients. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely care, impacting early detection and intervention. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater ease of access. The presence of urgent care facilities and their capacity to handle initial screenings and referrals also play a significant role.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. Practices employing evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening and risk assessment are paramount. This involves the utilization of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing, digital rectal exams (DREs), and the consideration of individual patient risk factors, such as age, family history, and ethnicity. The proactive approach of primary care physicians in discussing prostate health with their male patients, especially those over 50 or at higher risk, is a key indicator of a strong healthcare system.

Specialist care, particularly urology, is another critical component. The availability of board-certified urologists within or near ZIP code 27574 is essential. Examining the number of urologists, their subspecialties (e.g., robotic surgery, radiation oncology), and their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers provides insights into the scope of available treatment options. The proximity of these specialists to the primary care network facilitates seamless referrals and coordinated care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Roxboro. The adoption of telemedicine technologies by both primary care and specialist practices can improve access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources. Examining the extent to which practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals is a key consideration. Practices embracing telemedicine can potentially reduce travel burdens for patients, improve appointment flexibility, and enhance overall patient engagement.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital in cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community is crucial. The integration of mental health services into the healthcare system, whether through on-site counseling, referrals, or partnerships with mental health organizations, demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, provide valuable peer support and can help patients navigate the emotional challenges associated with prostate cancer.

Several practices in and around Roxboro stand out based on their commitment to comprehensive prostate cancer care. These practices typically demonstrate a proactive approach to screening, utilize evidence-based guidelines, and prioritize patient education. They often have a strong network of specialists, including urologists and radiation oncologists, and may offer advanced treatment options, such as robotic-assisted surgery. Furthermore, these standout practices often have robust patient support programs, including mental health services and access to support groups.

The quality of the local hospital system plays a role. The presence of a hospital with a dedicated oncology department, advanced imaging capabilities (e.g., MRI, CT scans), and radiation therapy services is a significant advantage. The hospital's commitment to cancer research and clinical trials can also benefit patients by providing access to cutting-edge treatments. The hospital's overall patient satisfaction scores and its ability to coordinate care across different specialties are also important factors.

Patient education is a critical element. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about prostate cancer, screening guidelines, treatment options, and potential side effects are more likely to empower patients to make informed decisions about their health. This includes offering educational materials, hosting patient seminars, and providing access to online resources. The ability of the practice to communicate effectively with patients, answer their questions, and address their concerns fosters trust and improves patient outcomes.

The accessibility of financial assistance programs is also a consideration. Cancer treatments can be costly, and patients may need assistance with medical bills, medications, and other expenses. Practices that are familiar with available financial aid programs and can help patients navigate the application process demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being.

The availability of specialized care, such as radiation oncology and medical oncology, is important. The presence of these specialists within the community or nearby facilitates comprehensive treatment planning and coordination. The ability to offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy, ensures that patients receive the most appropriate care for their specific needs.

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in Roxboro, NC (27574) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, primary care access, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient education. The practices that excel in these areas are best positioned to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals facing prostate cancer.
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To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Roxboro and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive platform to visualize physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data, enabling a more informed assessment of healthcare access.