27817, Chocowinity, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27817, Chocowinity, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.50 percent of the residents in 27817 has some form of health insurance. 52.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.25 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 27817 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,327 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 105 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27817. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,149 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,602 health care providers accessible to residents in 27817, Chocowinity, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: 27817 & Chocowinity Primary Care

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 27817 (Chocowinity, North Carolina) and the surrounding primary care resources available to its residents requires a multi-faceted approach. We will assess the accessibility of prostate cancer screening and treatment, focusing on physician availability, practice quality, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis aims to provide a Prostate Cancer Score (PCS) for the area, reflecting the overall ease and quality of care available to men in need.

The foundation of a good PCS lies in access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Chocowinity, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of men to receive routine screenings and referrals for suspected prostate cancer. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians for a given population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio in 27817 is crucial for a comprehensive assessment. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the US Department of Health & Human Services, can provide insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding Beaufort County area.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is also important. Are the practices concentrated in one area, creating potential geographic barriers for residents in more rural parts of Chocowinity? The presence of practices that accept a variety of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is also a factor. This ensures that access to care is not limited by financial constraints.

Once the primary care infrastructure is assessed, the analysis must delve into the practices themselves. Are the practices equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, such as digital rectal exam (DRE) capabilities and access to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing? The availability of these tools is a direct indicator of a practice's commitment to early detection. A high-quality practice will also prioritize patient education, providing men with information about prostate cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options.

The quality of referrals is another crucial element. When a PCP suspects prostate cancer, a timely and appropriate referral to a urologist is essential. The presence of local urologists and their reputations within the community are key. Are there established relationships between PCPs and urologists, ensuring smooth transitions of care? The availability of specialists within a reasonable driving distance is a significant advantage. This reduces the burden on patients and can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment.

The integration of telemedicine is increasingly important in modern healthcare. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for residents in rural areas. Does the primary care infrastructure in Chocowinity offer telemedicine options for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring? Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for men who may have difficulty traveling to appointments. The adoption of telemedicine is a positive factor in the PCS.

Mental health is another critical aspect of healthcare, especially when dealing with a cancer diagnosis. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a significant factor. Do practices have access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists or counselors? Are there established pathways for patients to receive mental health support? The presence of these resources enhances the overall quality of care and contributes to a higher PCS.

Standout practices within 27817 and the surrounding area can be identified through various means. Patient reviews, quality ratings from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), and physician referrals can provide valuable insights. Practices that consistently demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, early detection, and access to specialists deserve recognition. These practices serve as models for other providers in the area.

The overall Prostate Cancer Score for 27817 will be based on a weighted average of these factors. A high score indicates good access to PCPs, high-quality diagnostic tools, timely referrals, telemedicine options, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as a need for more PCPs, better access to specialists, or increased adoption of telemedicine.

Based on this analysis, the PCS for 27817 and the surrounding area will be determined. This score, however, is not a static measure. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The availability of physicians, the adoption of new technologies, and the quality of care are all subject to change. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents of Chocowinity have access to the best possible prostate cancer care.

For a visual representation of this data and a comprehensive mapping of healthcare resources in the area, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care within 27817 and beyond.