27893, Wilson, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27893, Wilson, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.80 percent of the residents in 27893 has some form of health insurance. 45.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.24 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 27893 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,791 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27893. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,894 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,078 health care providers accessible to residents in 27893, Wilson, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Wilson, NC (ZIP Code 27893)

This analysis assesses the quality of prostate cancer care and primary care availability within Wilson, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27893), considering factors relevant to patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, guiding informed healthcare decisions. This analysis avoids simple rankings and instead offers a comprehensive evaluation.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in the availability of skilled primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact, responsible for initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing management. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. In Wilson, the ratio needs careful scrutiny. The national average for primary care physicians is around 60-70 physicians per 100,000 people. Wilson’s specific ratio requires investigation through publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, could potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and limited access to preventative care, impacting early detection of prostate cancer.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This includes the breadth of services offered, the experience of the physicians, and the integration of technology. Practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, including regular PSA screenings and digital rectal exams for men over 50, are particularly valuable. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important indicator. EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, allowing for seamless communication between PCPs, urologists, and other specialists involved in prostate cancer treatment.

When evaluating the local healthcare landscape, it is important to identify standout practices. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, often characterized by a patient-centered approach, a commitment to evidence-based medicine, and a focus on patient education. Researching local practice websites, reading patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and consulting with local community health organizations can help identify these leading providers. These practices often excel in patient education, providing clear and accessible information about prostate cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Wilson. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with urologists or oncologists. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more convenient and accessible care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, should be a key factor in evaluating the quality of care.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with local mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. Access to support groups, counseling services, and educational programs can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of the disease and improve their overall quality of life. This is a critical area for assessment within the Wilson healthcare system.

The treatment of prostate cancer often involves a multidisciplinary approach, requiring collaboration between PCPs, urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and other specialists. The ease of access to these specialists and the level of coordination between them are critical factors in determining the quality of care. Examining the referral patterns of local PCPs and the communication protocols between different healthcare providers can provide insights into the efficiency and effectiveness of the care coordination process.

The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies is also important. This includes access to advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, as well as access to advanced treatment options, such as robotic-assisted surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. The presence of a well-equipped hospital or cancer center in the area is a positive indicator.

Another crucial aspect to consider is patient education. Practices that provide comprehensive patient education materials, including brochures, websites, and educational videos, can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. This also includes providing clear information about the risks and benefits of different treatment options, as well as the potential side effects of each treatment.

Furthermore, the cost of care is a significant factor for patients. The affordability of healthcare services, including screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment options, can impact access to care. Researching the cost of care in Wilson and comparing it to regional and national averages can provide insights into the affordability of healthcare services.

Finally, it's important to consider the demographics of the community. Wilson has a significant African American population, a group that experiences a higher incidence of prostate cancer and often faces disparities in healthcare access. Evaluating the healthcare system’s ability to address these disparities is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of culturally competent care, language services, and outreach programs designed to reach underserved populations.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilson, including the locations of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the demographics of the community, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of the local healthcare environment, allowing you to explore the distribution of healthcare providers, access to services, and other relevant data.

**Explore the healthcare landscape of Wilson, NC (27893) with CartoChrome maps. Gain valuable insights into the location of providers, the accessibility of resources, and the demographics of the community to make informed healthcare decisions.**