27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.21 percent of the residents in 27948 has some form of health insurance. 25.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.76 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 27948 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,947 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27948. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 847 health care providers accessible to residents in 27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina.

The analysis below focuses on evaluating the availability of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 27948, which encompasses Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. This assessment considers the accessibility of primary care physicians, a crucial element in early detection and ongoing management, alongside the broader healthcare landscape, including telemedicine and mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to individuals in this area seeking prostate cancer-related care.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in accessible primary care. Regular check-ups, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams, are vital for early detection. In Kill Devil Hills, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative screenings. Conversely, a lower ratio, with more physicians available, generally suggests better access to care. The precise physician-to-patient ratio for Kill Devil Hills requires specific data analysis, but it is a fundamental factor in determining the overall ‘Prostate Cancer Score’.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and breadth of primary care services are also important. Some practices may specialize in men's health, offering more comprehensive care and potentially fostering greater patient awareness of prostate cancer risks and screening guidelines. The presence of advanced diagnostic tools, such as on-site ultrasound or access to advanced imaging, further enhances the quality of care. The availability of registered nurses, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners also contributes to the overall capacity of a practice to manage patient needs.

Standout practices in Kill Devil Hills would likely demonstrate a commitment to patient education and preventative care. This might involve actively promoting PSA screening, providing educational materials about prostate cancer, and offering support groups or resources for patients and their families. Practices that prioritize patient communication, ensuring clear and concise explanations of diagnoses and treatment options, would also be highly regarded. These practices often have a strong track record of patient satisfaction and positive health outcomes.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption in Kill Devil Hills could significantly impact access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially shortening wait times. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists. The extent to which primary care practices in Kill Devil Hills have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, is a crucial element in the overall assessment.

Mental health support is often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but it is an essential component of holistic 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 resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore critical. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either directly or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. The proximity of mental health specialists, the availability of telehealth options for mental health consultations, and the integration of mental health screening into routine check-ups are all factors to consider.

The ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ for Kill Devil Hills would also consider the availability of specialists, such as urologists and oncologists, who are essential for diagnosing and treating prostate cancer. The proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral from primary care physicians, and the availability of specialized treatment options, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, all contribute to the overall score. The presence of a local hospital or medical center with advanced cancer treatment facilities is a significant advantage.

The overall assessment requires a detailed analysis of various data points. The analysis would begin by gathering information on the number of primary care physicians in the area, the services they offer, and their patient-to-physician ratios. This would be followed by an investigation of telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialist care. Patient satisfaction surveys and reviews could provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by different practices. The final ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ would be a composite measure, reflecting the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of prostate cancer-related care in Kill Devil Hills.

In conclusion, assessing the ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ for Kill Devil Hills requires a comprehensive approach. It involves a deep dive into the availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of specialist care. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape and identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality of care for individuals at risk of or affected by prostate cancer.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kill Devil Hills and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and making informed decisions about your healthcare needs.