27957, Merry Hill, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27957, Merry Hill, North Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.50 percent of the residents in 27957 has some form of health insurance. 45.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.41 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 27957 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 50 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27957. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 385 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 727 health care providers accessible to residents in 27957, Merry Hill, North Carolina.

The analysis of prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 27957, encompassing Merry Hill, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of urological specialists but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care access, telemedicine options, and mental health support. This assessment seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to men in this community, ultimately informing their healthcare decisions.

The foundation of any prostate cancer care assessment rests upon the availability of qualified physicians. Within the specified ZIP code, the presence of board-certified urologists is the primary factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer urologists per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially compromised treatment outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to specialized care. Information regarding the number of practicing urologists in the area, their specialization, and their affiliations with hospitals or clinics is critical to this initial evaluation.

Beyond the raw number of urologists, the quality of care is paramount. This includes assessing the experience and training of the physicians, their use of evidence-based practices, and their participation in continuing medical education. Reviews from patients, available through online platforms, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication skills, and the overall patient experience. Hospitals and clinics affiliated with the urologists should be evaluated regarding their accreditation, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (such as MRI and PET scans), and their capacity for various treatment modalities, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in prostate cancer screening and early detection. Their accessibility and the quality of their care significantly impact patient outcomes. The availability of PCPs in Merry Hill, and the surrounding areas within ZIP Code 27957, needs to be assessed. This includes evaluating the number of PCPs per capita, their acceptance of new patients, and the wait times for appointments. The presence of PCPs who are knowledgeable about prostate cancer screening guidelines, and who actively encourage men to undergo regular screenings, is a positive indicator of a proactive healthcare environment.

The integration of telemedicine into the healthcare landscape is increasingly important, particularly in rural communities like Merry Hill. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including improved access to specialists, reduced travel time for patients, and the potential for more frequent follow-up appointments. The adoption of telemedicine by urologists and PCPs in the area should be investigated. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital tools for patient education and communication. The ease of access to these technologies, and the patient's comfort level with their use, are also essential considerations.

The diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer can be emotionally challenging for patients. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. The proximity of these resources to the community, the cost of services, and the availability of insurance coverage are all important factors. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, through referrals from urologists and PCPs, demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care.

Specific practices within ZIP Code 27957 that stand out should be highlighted. This requires identifying those clinics or hospitals that demonstrate excellence in prostate cancer care. These practices may have a higher physician-to-patient ratio, offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, have a strong track record of positive patient outcomes, or demonstrate a commitment to patient education and support. The use of patient satisfaction surveys, and the implementation of quality improvement initiatives, are also indicators of a practice's commitment to providing high-quality care.

The analysis should extend beyond the immediate vicinity of Merry Hill. Examining the healthcare resources available in neighboring communities, such as Edenton, Plymouth, and Williamston, is essential. This will provide a more comprehensive picture of the overall healthcare landscape and allow for a more informed assessment of the resources available to patients in Merry Hill. This includes evaluating the transportation options available to patients, and the potential for collaboration between different healthcare providers across the region.

The overall score for prostate cancer care in ZIP Code 27957 should reflect a balanced assessment of all the factors discussed. This score should be based on a clear methodology, and should be transparently presented. It should consider the availability of urologists, the quality of their care, the accessibility of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. The score should be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used, and should identify specific areas where improvements are needed.

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the prostate cancer care landscape in Merry Hill. It emphasizes the importance of considering not only the availability of specialists, but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care access, telemedicine options, and mental health support. A comprehensive assessment of these factors is essential for ensuring that men in this community have access to the best possible care. The final score should reflect a balanced assessment of all these factors.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Merry Hill, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. This tool allows you to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.