The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27824, Engelhard, North Carolina is 2 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 75.23 percent of the residents in 27824 has some form of health insurance. 50.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.82 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 27824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 417 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27824. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 198 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 6 health care providers accessible to residents in 27824, Engelhard, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 27824, Engelhard, North Carolina
Prostate Cancer Score | 3 |
---|---|
People Score | 20 |
Provider Score | 2 |
Hospital Score | 56 |
Travel Score | 9 |
27824 | Engelhard | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The analysis below provides a nuanced perspective on prostate cancer care and primary care accessibility within Engelhard, North Carolina (ZIP code 27824). It considers various factors, offering a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape.
Prostate cancer, a significant health concern for men, necessitates access to specialized care, early detection, and effective treatment options. The availability and quality of these services are crucial within any community. Engelhard, a rural area, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare delivery.
Assessing the quality of prostate cancer care begins with evaluating the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, facilitating screenings and referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio within Engelhard is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced access, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio necessitates data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. Publicly available information regarding the number of active PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, compared to the population size, will offer an important perspective.
Engelhard's primary care landscape also needs an examination of the types of practices available. Are there solo practitioners, or are there group practices? Group practices often offer a wider range of services and potentially better coordination of care. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is another key factor. FQHCs provide care to underserved populations, often offering sliding-scale fees and comprehensive services. The existence of these centers would be a positive indicator of accessibility.
Beyond primary care, the availability of specialists is crucial. Urologists, who specialize in the urinary tract and male reproductive system, are essential for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The presence of urologists within a reasonable driving distance is a key indicator of access to specialized care. If urologists are located outside of the immediate area, the travel time and the availability of transportation become important considerations.
The quality of prostate cancer care also involves considering the diagnostic and treatment options available. Does the area have access to modern imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of the disease? The availability of radiation therapy and surgical options, including minimally invasive procedures, is another crucial factor. The existence of these services within a reasonable distance from Engelhard is a critical component of a comprehensive prostate cancer care assessment.
Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve access to care, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel. An assessment of telemedicine adoption involves investigating which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services.
Mental health resources are also an important aspect of this analysis. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is crucial for supporting patients through the emotional and psychological aspects of their illness. The presence of these resources within the community or nearby is a positive indicator of comprehensive care.
Standout practices within the area can be identified by examining patient reviews, physician ratings, and accreditations. Practices with a reputation for excellent patient care, experienced physicians, and a commitment to using the latest technologies should be recognized. Investigating patient satisfaction scores and the availability of patient education materials is another method of evaluating the quality of care.
The assessment of primary care availability in Engelhard requires a broader perspective. It is not just about the number of physicians; it is also about the accessibility of care. Are appointments readily available? What are the wait times for appointments? Do practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid? The availability of transportation services is also a key consideration. For patients who lack transportation, the ability to access care becomes a significant challenge.
The geographic distribution of healthcare facilities is also important. Are primary care practices and specialist offices clustered in one area, or are they dispersed throughout the community? The distribution of services can impact access, particularly for patients who live in remote areas.
The availability of after-hours care is another important factor. Do practices offer evening or weekend appointments? Do they have on-call physicians? The availability of after-hours care can be critical for patients who experience urgent medical needs.
The assessment of primary care availability should also consider the cultural competency of healthcare providers. Do providers understand the cultural backgrounds of their patients? Do they offer services in multiple languages? Cultural competency is essential for building trust and ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.
The overall assessment of prostate cancer care and primary care availability in Engelhard, NC, is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the quality of care provided by local practices. This information is essential for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve healthcare access and outcomes within the community.
To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and understand the accessibility of care in Engelhard and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.
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