27883, Stantonsburg, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27883, Stantonsburg, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.24 percent of the residents in 27883 has some form of health insurance. 40.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.33 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 27883 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 820 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27883. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 488 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,131 health care providers accessible to residents in 27883, Stantonsburg, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Stantonsburg, NC (ZIP Code 27883)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Stantonsburg, North Carolina (ZIP code 27883) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers not only the availability of urologists and specialists but also the broader healthcare infrastructure, including primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all of which contribute to a patient's overall experience and outcome. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem, offering insights for patients seeking care and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

The initial challenge lies in the limited geographical scope. Stantonsburg is a small town, and therefore, the direct presence of specialized prostate cancer care, such as dedicated urologists or radiation oncologists, within the ZIP code itself is unlikely. Instead, residents likely rely on healthcare providers in neighboring communities, such as Wilson, Goldsboro, or Greenville, which are regional hubs for medical services. This immediately introduces a crucial factor: accessibility. How easily can residents of Stantonsburg travel to these larger towns for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care? Factors like transportation availability, particularly for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations, become paramount.

Primary care availability in Stantonsburg is the foundation upon which prostate cancer care is built. The role of primary care physicians (PCPs) is critical in early detection, screening, and patient education. A robust primary care system ensures that men are regularly screened for prostate cancer through the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exams. The physician-to-patient ratio within Stantonsburg, and the surrounding county, is a key indicator of access. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a low ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care services. Investigating the specific number of PCPs practicing within Stantonsburg and the surrounding area, along with their patient load, is essential for a comprehensive assessment.

Standout practices within the region, particularly those in neighboring towns, may offer specialized services and advanced technologies for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. These practices often have a higher level of expertise and access to state-of-the-art equipment, such as advanced imaging techniques (MRI, PET scans) and minimally invasive surgical procedures. Identifying these practices and evaluating their patient outcomes, physician experience, and patient satisfaction scores is crucial for understanding the quality of care available to Stantonsburg residents. Furthermore, examining the practice's integration of multidisciplinary care, involving urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and other specialists, is a significant indicator of comprehensive care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of prostate cancer care in a rural setting. Telemedicine can bridge the geographical gap, allowing patients in Stantonsburg to consult with specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations that do not require a physical examination. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services offered by local practices and hospitals is essential. Factors to consider include the types of telemedicine platforms used, the ease of access for patients, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers. A robust telemedicine infrastructure can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are vital for patient well-being. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial for helping patients cope with the emotional and psychological impact of the disease. Evaluating the availability of these resources within Stantonsburg and the surrounding area, and assessing their accessibility for patients, is a critical component of a comprehensive prostate cancer care analysis. Integration of mental health services within the healthcare system, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, is a significant advantage.

Specific practices to investigate would include those affiliated with larger healthcare systems in Wilson and Greenville. These systems often have a broader network of specialists, advanced technologies, and integrated care models. Researching their prostate cancer treatment protocols, patient outcomes, and patient satisfaction scores is essential. Furthermore, examining their commitment to patient education and support services, such as providing educational materials, support groups, and survivorship programs, is important.

The physician-to-patient ratio in the area is a key metric. A high ratio may indicate a shortage of healthcare providers, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care. Researching the specific ratio within Stantonsburg and the surrounding county, and comparing it to state and national averages, will provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care.

In conclusion, evaluating prostate cancer care in Stantonsburg, NC (ZIP code 27883) requires a holistic approach. It involves assessing primary care availability, identifying standout practices in the region, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. Understanding these factors, along with the physician-to-patient ratio, provides a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape. This analysis is intended to provide a starting point for patients and healthcare providers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for potential improvement.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic information, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide a valuable tool for understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identifying potential gaps in care.