27841, Hassell, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27841, Hassell, North Carolina is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 27841 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 91.67 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 27841 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27841. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 22 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 316 health care providers accessible to residents in 27841, Hassell, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27841 and Hassell, NC

This analysis evaluates the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 27841, encompassing the town of Scotland Neck, North Carolina, and considers the availability of primary care resources in the nearby community of Hassell. The assessment focuses on factors crucial for effective prostate cancer management, including physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health support. A "Prostate Cancer Score" is implicitly derived by considering the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of accessible prostate cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. In 27841, and the surrounding rural areas, the ratio is likely less favorable than in more urban settings. This means each physician potentially serves a larger patient population, which can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. The impact is particularly significant for preventative screenings and early detection, crucial for successful prostate cancer treatment. The limited presence of specialists, such as urologists and oncologists, within the immediate area necessitates travel to larger regional centers like Greenville or Raleigh for specialized care. This travel burden can be a significant barrier for patients, especially those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Assessing the quality of care within 27841 is complex. While specific practice rankings are difficult to ascertain without access to proprietary data, it's possible to infer some aspects of quality. The presence of well-established practices with experienced physicians, a history of patient satisfaction (available through online reviews, though potentially biased), and affiliations with larger healthcare systems can indicate a higher standard of care. Conversely, practices with high staff turnover, limited technology, and a lack of specialized services might suggest areas for improvement. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is a crucial factor. EHRs streamline communication between providers, improve care coordination, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. Practices that are slow to adopt or effectively utilize EHRs may struggle to provide the most efficient and coordinated care.

Telemedicine adoption is a key consideration, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical gaps, providing access to specialists and follow-up care without requiring patients to travel long distances. The availability of telehealth consultations for prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and management can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within 27841 is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine implementation, and this may be a challenge in some areas.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for providing comprehensive care. Practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns and offer referrals to appropriate services demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. The integration of mental health services within the healthcare system, either through on-site providers or readily accessible referral networks, is a critical component of a high-quality prostate cancer care environment. The relative scarcity of mental health professionals in rural areas like 27841 and Hassell may present a challenge.

Primary care availability in Hassell, while not directly within the 27841 ZIP code, is a vital factor. Hassell serves as a potential source of primary care for residents of 27841. The presence of accessible and well-equipped PCPs in Hassell can alleviate some of the burden on healthcare resources in Scotland Neck. The quality of primary care in Hassell directly impacts the early detection of prostate cancer. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or requiring routine screenings. A strong primary care infrastructure in Hassell, including adequate staffing, comprehensive services, and a commitment to preventative care, enhances the overall prostate cancer care ecosystem for the region.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for this area is likely moderate, given the challenges of rural healthcare. While specific practice quality varies, the limited physician-to-patient ratio, the potential for travel burdens, and the need for improved telemedicine adoption and mental health integration suggest areas for improvement. The availability of primary care resources in Hassell is a crucial supporting factor, but the overall score is likely tempered by the inherent difficulties of providing comprehensive healthcare in a rural setting.

To visualize and analyze the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and the availability of mental health services, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas where resources are most needed.