27965, Poplar Branch, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27965, Poplar Branch, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.22 percent of the residents in 27965 has some form of health insurance. 62.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.28 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 27965 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27965. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 134 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 515 health care providers accessible to residents in 27965, Poplar Branch, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Poplar Branch, NC (ZIP Code 27965)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning prostate cancer care, within Poplar Branch, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27965) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors impacting early detection, treatment options, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape, identifying strengths and weaknesses in the context of prostate cancer care.

One of the initial critical considerations is the availability of primary care physicians. Primary care serves as the gateway to healthcare, and a robust primary care infrastructure is crucial for early detection and referral for prostate cancer. The physician-to-patient ratio in Poplar Branch, and the surrounding areas, plays a vital role. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for routine checkups and screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more proactive healthcare management. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the US Department of Health & Human Services. This data would then need to be specifically analyzed for the 27965 ZIP code, or the broader Currituck County area, to obtain a relevant assessment.

Beyond the raw numbers, it’s essential to examine the distribution of primary care practices. Are these practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving others underserved? Are they accepting new patients, and what is the average wait time for an appointment? Furthermore, the presence of specialized urology practices within a reasonable driving distance is a significant factor. While primary care physicians often initiate prostate cancer screenings, the expertise of a urologist is paramount for diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. The proximity of specialized care, including access to advanced diagnostic tools like MRI and biopsy capabilities, directly impacts the quality of care patients receive.

The adoption of telemedicine within primary care and urology practices is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers several advantages, especially in rural areas like Poplar Branch. It can reduce travel burdens, improve access to specialists, and facilitate follow-up appointments. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, which is particularly beneficial for individuals managing chronic conditions like prostate cancer. Examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring options, and online patient portals provides a clearer picture of the telemedicine landscape.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are integral to patient well-being. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for coping with the disease and its treatment. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community is a key indicator. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care and urology practices, or the ease of referral to such services, is a significant advantage. Does the local healthcare system provide support groups or educational programs for patients and their families?

Identifying standout practices within the area requires a more nuanced approach. This involves examining patient reviews, evaluating practice accreditations, and assessing the range of services offered. Are there practices that consistently receive positive feedback regarding patient communication, empathy, and the quality of care? Do any practices specialize in prostate cancer treatment, offering advanced therapies like robotic surgery or radiation oncology? Furthermore, it is important to investigate the practice’s commitment to preventative care, including proactive screening programs and patient education initiatives.

The analysis should also consider the availability of support services. These include access to patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, and financial assistance programs, which can alleviate the burden of treatment costs. Are there local chapters of cancer support organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or the Prostate Cancer Foundation, that provide resources and support to patients and their families?

The overall Prostate Cancer Score for Poplar Branch, NC, is determined by weighting these various factors. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is conducive to early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient support. A low score suggests potential areas for improvement, highlighting the need for increased access to primary care, specialized urology services, mental health resources, and patient support programs.

This analysis, however, is just a starting point. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and a comprehensive understanding requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Publicly available data, patient feedback, and expert opinions should be continuously integrated to refine the assessment and identify areas for improvement. The goal is to ensure that residents of Poplar Branch have access to the best possible care for prostate cancer.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Poplar Branch, and to visualize the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and support services, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to make informed decisions about your healthcare.