27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.52 percent of the residents in 27964 has some form of health insurance. 19.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.95 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 27964 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 166 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27964. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 143 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 753 health care providers accessible to residents in 27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Point Harbor, NC (ZIP Code 27964)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 27964, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability, quality of care, and access to supportive resources. Point Harbor, North Carolina, a coastal community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, not a simple ranking, but an in-depth understanding of the healthcare environment.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on accessible primary care. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through screening and referral. In Point Harbor, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Researching the exact ratio for this specific ZIP code requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board or the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. However, coastal and rural areas often face shortages. If the ratio is unfavorable, it could mean longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying critical screenings and diagnoses.

The presence of larger medical groups or clinics within or near Point Harbor can mitigate this challenge. These entities often have a broader network of physicians, allowing for better patient distribution and access. Conversely, a reliance on solo practices or smaller clinics might create vulnerabilities in coverage, especially during physician absences. The availability of urgent care facilities is another consideration, as they can provide immediate care for acute issues, freeing up PCPs to focus on preventative care and chronic disease management, including prostate cancer.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care Indicators**

Identifying “standout practices” requires evaluating several factors. These include the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening and treatment. Practices that consistently adhere to these guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Urological Association (AUA), demonstrate a commitment to quality care. Another key indicator is the use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate information sharing between providers, improve care coordination, and enable data analysis for quality improvement initiatives.

Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices with high patient satisfaction scores, reflecting positive interactions with physicians and staff, are more likely to foster trust and encourage adherence to treatment plans. Furthermore, the presence of specialized services, such as urology consultations or access to advanced imaging technologies (MRI, PET scans), within or near Point Harbor is a significant advantage. These services streamline the diagnostic and treatment process.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care for residents of Point Harbor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and even participate in support groups without the need for travel. This is particularly beneficial for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The availability of telemedicine services for prostate cancer care depends on several factors, including the willingness of local practices to adopt the technology, the availability of reliable internet access in the area, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to be more accessible and patient-centered, offering greater convenience and flexibility.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care**

Prostate cancer and its treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups in Point Harbor is essential. These resources can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment.

Ideally, practices should have established referral pathways to mental health providers. This ensures that patients receive the necessary support when they need it. Support groups, either in-person or online, provide a valuable forum for patients to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn from others who are facing similar challenges. The presence of social workers or patient navigators within the healthcare system can also be beneficial, assisting patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system and accessing available resources.

**Specific Considerations for Point Harbor**

Point Harbor, being a coastal community, may have a higher proportion of elderly residents, who are at a greater risk of prostate cancer. This demographic factor underscores the importance of readily available screening and treatment options. The community's proximity to larger urban centers, such as Elizabeth City, may offer access to specialized care, but transportation and travel time remain considerations. The local healthcare infrastructure must be assessed to determine its capacity to meet the needs of the community.

**Conclusion**

The quality of prostate cancer care in Point Harbor, NC (ZIP Code 27964) is a complex issue. It hinges on the availability of PCPs, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. While a definitive ranking is difficult without specific data, a thorough assessment of these factors provides a valuable understanding of the healthcare landscape.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources and their proximity to Point Harbor, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can help visualize the data discussed in this analysis and provide a more comprehensive perspective on the healthcare environment.