27922, Cofield, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27922, Cofield, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.78 percent of the residents in 27922 has some form of health insurance. 46.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.64 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 27922 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 154 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27922. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 489 health care providers accessible to residents in 27922, Cofield, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27922 and Primary Care Availability in Cofield**

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 27922, encompassing the town of Cofield, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas. It aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the available resources, physician accessibility, and overall quality of care for individuals concerned about prostate health. The focus is on primary care availability, a crucial element in early detection and management of this prevalent disease.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on the availability of accessible and competent primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors serve as the first point of contact, offering initial screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing management of the disease. In Cofield, a small rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Sparse populations often equate to limited access to medical professionals. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires a detailed examination of the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP Code and the total population served. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau is essential for this calculation. A low ratio suggests potential challenges in scheduling appointments, receiving timely care, and building a strong patient-physician relationship.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Assessing the quality involves evaluating several factors. These include the physicians' credentials, board certifications, and years of experience. Patient reviews and testimonials, though subjective, offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication skills, empathy, and the overall satisfaction with the care received. Furthermore, the presence of advanced diagnostic equipment, such as digital rectal exam tools, and the adoption of evidence-based screening protocols, like the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, are indicative of a commitment to providing high-quality care.

Identifying standout practices involves a deeper dive into their operational practices. Practices that prioritize patient education, offering resources on prostate cancer prevention, screening, and treatment options, are highly desirable. The availability of dedicated care coordinators or nurses who assist patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment is another positive indicator. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and patient-centered care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, review test results remotely, and provide follow-up care via telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care for patients in Cofield. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine involves examining the availability of virtual appointment options, the types of services offered via telehealth, and the technological infrastructure supporting these services. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care and a commitment to overcoming geographical limitations.

The mental health component of prostate cancer care is often overlooked, yet it is a critical aspect of overall well-being. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources, such as access to therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for supporting patients through their journey. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves identifying the presence of mental health professionals within the primary care practices, the availability of referrals to mental health specialists, and the existence of local support groups or online resources dedicated to prostate cancer patients. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

The analysis extends beyond primary care to include the availability of specialist care, specifically urologists. While PCPs are the initial point of contact, urologists are the experts in diagnosing and treating prostate cancer. The proximity of urology practices to Cofield is a crucial factor in determining access to specialized care. The analysis should include the travel time to the nearest urology clinics, the number of urologists practicing in the area, and the range of services offered, including diagnostic procedures, surgical options, and radiation therapy. Practices that collaborate effectively with urologists ensure a seamless transition for patients requiring specialized care.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of other supportive services, such as physical therapy, nutrition counseling, and palliative care. These services can play a vital role in managing the side effects of treatment and improving the overall quality of life for prostate cancer patients. The analysis should identify the availability of these services within the community and assess their accessibility to patients.

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 27922, with a focus on Cofield, requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, assessing the quality of primary care practices, examining the adoption of telemedicine, and assessing the availability of mental health resources and specialist care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the resources available to patients and identify areas for improvement. The findings of this analysis can be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients, ultimately contributing to better prostate cancer outcomes.

To visualize the geographic distribution of physicians, primary care facilities, and specialist practices, and to further understand the accessibility of care in the area, we encourage you to explore interactive maps and data visualizations. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 27922 and beyond. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the data and gain valuable insights.