27814, Blounts Creek, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27814, Blounts Creek, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.29 percent of the residents in 27814 has some form of health insurance. 48.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.86 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 27814 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 253 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27814. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 419 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 249 health care providers accessible to residents in 27814, Blounts Creek, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: 27814 and Blounts Creek

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, especially concerning prostate cancer, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the specific needs of residents within ZIP Code 27814 (likely encompassing a portion of Beaufort County, North Carolina) and the primary care landscape of Blounts Creek, a community within that area. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the availability of resources related to prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. This includes assessing physician availability, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services, all crucial factors influencing patient outcomes.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Blounts Creek and the surrounding areas of 27814, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio (meaning fewer doctors per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and a general feeling of being underserved. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), combined with information from local hospitals and clinics, is essential to determine this ratio. It's important to note that this ratio can fluctuate, especially in rural areas, due to physician shortages and changing demographics.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the experience of the physicians, their specializations, and the range of services offered. Do the PCPs in 27814 have experience in early detection of prostate cancer? Are they equipped to perform initial screenings, such as digital rectal exams (DREs) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and oncologists for further evaluation and treatment? Identifying practices that excel in these areas is crucial for patients.

Standout practices in the area should be highlighted. This requires reviewing patient reviews, assessing the practice's commitment to preventative care, and evaluating their use of technology. Practices that actively promote prostate cancer awareness and offer comprehensive screening programs should be recognized. Furthermore, practices that prioritize patient education and provide clear, accessible information about prostate cancer risks, symptoms, and treatment options deserve commendation. This often includes providing educational materials in multiple formats (e.g., brochures, websites, and videos).

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can greatly improve access to care, especially in rural areas where travel distances can be a barrier. Does 27814 have PCPs or specialists offering telemedicine consultations for prostate cancer screening, follow-up appointments, or even support group meetings? The availability of telemedicine can significantly reduce travel time and costs, making healthcare more accessible and convenient for patients. The success of telemedicine depends on factors like internet connectivity and the willingness of both physicians and patients to embrace the technology.

Mental health resources are also vital. A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is crucial for patient well-being. Are there mental health professionals in the area who specialize in working with cancer patients? Do local hospitals or clinics offer support groups specifically for men with prostate cancer? Integrating mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The location of specialists is also a critical consideration. While primary care physicians are the initial point of contact, patients often need to see urologists and oncologists for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists to 27814 is a factor. Are there urologists and oncologists within a reasonable driving distance? Are there specialized cancer centers that offer comprehensive prostate cancer treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy? The availability of these specialists and treatment facilities directly impacts the timeliness and effectiveness of care.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources is important. Are there local chapters of organizations like the Prostate Cancer Foundation or the American Cancer Society? These organizations often provide valuable information, support groups, and educational programs for patients and their families. Access to these resources can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

Assessing the overall prostate cancer score for 27814 and Blounts Creek involves synthesizing all of the above factors. This score should reflect the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the proximity of specialists, and the presence of community support. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for prostate cancer patients, while a lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed. This score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

Finally, visualizing this data geographically can provide valuable insights. CartoChrome maps can be used to create interactive maps that display the location of physicians, specialists, hospitals, and support resources within and around 27814. These maps can also incorporate data on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine availability, and other relevant factors. This visual representation can help patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers understand the healthcare landscape and identify areas where resources are needed.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 27814 and Blounts Creek, and to visualize the data discussed, we encourage you to explore interactive maps and data visualizations. Visit CartoChrome maps to see how these factors are geographically distributed and how they impact access to care.