27943, Hatteras, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27943, Hatteras, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.33 percent of the residents in 27943 has some form of health insurance. 36.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.27 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 27943 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 117 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27943. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 151 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33 health care providers accessible to residents in 27943, Hatteras, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27943 & Primary Care Availability in Hatteras**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 27943, encompassing Hatteras, North Carolina, requires a nuanced approach. Evaluating the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and, by extension, the accessibility of prostate cancer screening and treatment, is critical. This analysis will consider several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to an overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for the region. Due to the limited population and geographical isolation of Hatteras, this score will necessarily be assessed within the context of its unique challenges.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In a rural area like Hatteras, this ratio is likely to be less favorable than in more densely populated urban centers. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The specific physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP code 27943 requires localized data, ideally from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or similar sources. This data should include the number of practicing PCPs, including family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and geriatricians, and the total population of the area. This ratio will be a significant component of the Prostate Cancer Score.

Identifying standout medical practices within the area is also essential. These practices, often characterized by their commitment to patient care, advanced technology, and community involvement, can significantly improve the Prostate Cancer Score. The presence of a well-regarded primary care practice that emphasizes preventative screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams, is crucial. Furthermore, a practice that fosters strong relationships with specialists, such as urologists located in nearby cities like Elizabeth City or Greenville, is beneficial. Reviews from patients, accreditation status, and the scope of services offered are all factors in assessing a practice's quality. This could include assessing the availability of advanced diagnostic imaging, such as MRI, used in the diagnosis of prostate cancer.

The adoption of telemedicine is a particularly relevant factor in evaluating healthcare accessibility in a rural setting. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Hatteras to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. Practices that offer telemedicine appointments, especially for initial consultations or post-operative care, will contribute positively to the Prostate Cancer Score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a crucial prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation. The degree to which telemedicine is integrated into the local healthcare system directly impacts the score.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but vital component of comprehensive healthcare. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health support is crucial for patients and their families. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community or through telehealth services, is a significant factor. The presence of support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families further enhances the score. The integration of mental health services into the overall healthcare system demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care.

The Prostate Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 27943 will be influenced by the availability of resources for prostate cancer screening and treatment. The presence of local primary care physicians who routinely offer prostate cancer screenings is a positive indicator. The ease of access to urologists, whether through in-person visits or telemedicine, is also important. The availability of treatment options, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy, may be limited locally, but the efficiency of referrals to specialized centers will be considered. The score will reflect the overall ability of patients to receive timely and appropriate care.

The geographical isolation of Hatteras presents unique challenges. The distance to larger medical centers, the limited availability of specialists, and the potential for transportation difficulties all impact healthcare access. The Prostate Cancer Score will need to account for these challenges. The score will also consider the community's awareness of prostate cancer and the efforts made to promote early detection and preventative care. This could include public health campaigns, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives.

The overall Prostate Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 27943 will be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a well-resourced healthcare system with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout medical practices, robust telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, and easy access to prostate cancer screening and treatment. A lower score would reflect challenges in these areas, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to care, and poorer patient outcomes. The score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing efforts of the community to improve healthcare access and quality.

The evaluation of the healthcare landscape in Hatteras requires a comprehensive approach, acknowledging the unique challenges and opportunities presented by its rural setting. The Prostate Cancer Score is a valuable tool for assessing the accessibility and quality of care, highlighting areas for improvement and celebrating successes. Accessing and analyzing the data, especially regarding physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, and the availability of mental health resources, is crucial for a thorough assessment. The score will be a valuable indicator of the community's commitment to providing quality healthcare for its residents.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and the location of hospitals and clinics, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Visualize the data, identify potential gaps in care, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 27943. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents alike.