27938, Gatesville, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27938, Gatesville, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.47 percent of the residents in 27938 has some form of health insurance. 46.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.40 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 27938 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 330 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27938. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 301 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 485 health care providers accessible to residents in 27938, Gatesville, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Gatesville, NC (ZIP Code 27938)

Assessing healthcare quality, especially concerning a specific disease like prostate cancer, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, a critical entry point for early detection and management, within Gatesville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27938). We’ll evaluate the landscape, focusing on factors that influence a “Prostate Cancer Score” – encompassing access, physician expertise, and supportive resources.

Gatesville, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. A key consideration is the physician-to-patient ratio. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and other reliable sources, will be consulted to determine the approximate number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the population of 27938. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can negatively impact the “Prostate Cancer Score” by potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, limiting their ability to receive timely screenings and discuss concerns.

Primary care availability is paramount. This involves not just the number of physicians, but also the accessibility of their practices. Are they accepting new patients? What are the hours of operation? Are there evening or weekend appointments available? Practices that offer extended hours or same-day appointments contribute positively to the score, ensuring patients can seek care when needed. This is especially important for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of prostate cancer, who may require prompt evaluation.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. This involves researching practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including prostate cancer screening. Factors to consider include the use of evidence-based guidelines for screening, the availability of patient education materials, and the practice’s overall patient satisfaction ratings. Practices that actively promote prostate health awareness and provide comprehensive care, including referrals to urologists when necessary, would receive higher marks.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve the “Prostate Cancer Score” in a rural area like Gatesville. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that offer telehealth options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations would be viewed favorably.

Beyond the direct medical aspects, the availability of mental health resources is a significant factor. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. The “Prostate Cancer Score” should incorporate the availability of mental health support services within the community. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns and provide referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care, which can positively impact a patient's overall well-being and their ability to cope with the disease.

Evaluating specific practices involves gathering information from various sources. This includes reviewing physician profiles on websites like Healthgrades and Vitals, consulting with local community organizations, and, where possible, analyzing patient reviews. This process can help identify practices that are highly regarded by their patients and demonstrate a commitment to quality care. The practices with the highest scores would be those that excel in all of the areas discussed, including physician-to-patient ratios, accessibility, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” is not just about the presence of physicians; it's about the quality of care they provide. This includes their expertise in prostate cancer screening and management, their adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and their ability to provide comprehensive care that addresses the patient's physical and emotional needs. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education and stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in prostate cancer treatment would be viewed more favorably.

Furthermore, the score should consider the availability of diagnostic services, such as PSA testing and imaging (MRI, ultrasound), within the community or nearby. Easy access to these services is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The presence of a local hospital or diagnostic center that offers these services would significantly improve the “Prostate Cancer Score.” The closer the patient can receive testing, the better.

Ultimately, the “Prostate Cancer Score” is a composite measure reflecting the overall healthcare environment in Gatesville, NC, as it relates to prostate cancer. It's a complex assessment, but it provides a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This analysis serves as a starting point for further investigation and improvement.

To delve deeper into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within ZIP Code 27938, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, providing valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers.