27704, Durham, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27704, Durham, North Carolina is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.95 percent of the residents in 27704 has some form of health insurance. 34.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.63 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 27704 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,465 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27704. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,856 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 45,737 health care providers accessible to residents in 27704, Durham, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Durham, NC (ZIP Code 27704)

This analysis provides a Prostate Cancer Score for primary care physicians within the 27704 ZIP code in Durham, North Carolina, focusing on factors crucial for patient well-being, including early detection, access to care, and mental health support. It also assesses the overall primary care landscape in the area. This score is not a definitive ranking but rather a composite evaluation reflecting the availability and quality of resources related to prostate cancer care.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in robust primary care. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, making regular screenings and proactive care essential. In 27704, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to appointment delays and reduced access to preventative care, potentially impacting early detection rates. Conversely, a favorable ratio can facilitate more frequent check-ups and prompt referrals, leading to better patient outcomes. This assessment considers publicly available data on physician density within the specified ZIP code.

Standout practices are those that actively promote prostate cancer screening and offer comprehensive patient support. These practices often integrate the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Key indicators include the frequency of PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) testing, the utilization of digital rectal exams, and the practice’s approach to discussing risk factors and family history. Practices that proactively engage patients in shared decision-making, explaining the benefits and risks of screening, are highly valued. We will assess the presence of these key elements in practices within 27704.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in recent years. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. Practices that offer telehealth options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations receive a higher score. The availability of virtual consultations can also reduce the burden on patients, making it easier to adhere to recommended screening schedules and follow-up care plans. This analysis will determine the prevalence of telemedicine options among primary care providers in the area.

Beyond physical health, the mental well-being of prostate cancer patients is paramount. A cancer diagnosis can trigger anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Practices that recognize this and offer integrated mental health resources are highly rated. This includes in-house counseling services, referrals to mental health professionals, and educational materials on coping strategies. The presence of support groups, either within the practice or through partnerships with local organizations, is also considered. This analysis will evaluate the availability of these crucial mental health resources within primary care practices in 27704.

Furthermore, the overall availability of primary care in Durham is a key consideration. The broader healthcare ecosystem influences access to specialists, diagnostic services, and treatment facilities. The presence of major medical centers, such as Duke University Hospital and UNC Medical Center, provides access to cutting-edge treatment options and specialized expertise. However, even with these resources, disparities in access can exist. This analysis will consider factors like insurance coverage, socioeconomic status, and transportation options to assess the overall accessibility of care for residents of 27704.

The analysis will delve into the specific practices within 27704, evaluating their performance based on the criteria outlined above. This will involve reviewing publicly available information, including practice websites, patient reviews, and publicly reported quality metrics. It will also consider data from insurance providers and other relevant sources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the primary care landscape in the area, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each practice.

This analysis will examine the specific approaches to patient education. Practices that actively provide educational materials on prostate cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening guidelines receive a higher score. This includes providing pamphlets, brochures, and online resources, as well as conducting educational workshops and seminars. Practices that tailor their educational efforts to the specific needs of their patient population are also highly valued.

The analysis will also consider the practice's approach to patient communication. Practices that prioritize clear, concise, and empathetic communication receive a higher score. This includes providing patients with easy-to-understand explanations of their diagnosis and treatment options, as well as actively listening to their concerns and addressing their questions. Practices that utilize patient portals and other digital communication tools are also highly valued.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the practice's commitment to continuous improvement. Practices that regularly review their performance, solicit patient feedback, and implement changes to improve the quality of care receive a higher score. This includes participating in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes, and using data to inform their decision-making.

The final Prostate Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weights will be determined based on the relative importance of each factor in promoting early detection, access to care, and patient well-being. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing patients to easily compare different practices and make informed decisions about their care.

This analysis will also consider the availability of resources for patients with advanced prostate cancer. This includes access to specialized treatment options, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy, as well as support services, such as palliative care and hospice care. The presence of clinical trials and research opportunities will also be considered.

The final analysis will aim to provide a valuable resource for patients in 27704, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. It will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape in the area, providing a roadmap for improvement and promoting better outcomes for all.

For a more detailed visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care in Durham, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27704), explore the interactive maps available at CartoChrome. These maps provide a dynamic and insightful view of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to explore the data in a user-friendly format.