27967, Powellsville, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27967, Powellsville, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.54 percent of the residents in 27967 has some form of health insurance. 78.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.86 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 27967 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27967. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 395 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 117 health care providers accessible to residents in 27967, Powellsville, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Powellsville, NC (ZIP Code 27967)**

This analysis delves into the prostate cancer care landscape within the Powellsville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27967) area, focusing on primary care physician availability, key practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem for individuals seeking prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The analysis will not provide a numerical score but will assess the factors contributing to a patient's experience.

Powellsville, a small rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor, as PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for men experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative screening for prostate cancer. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Medical Board, the US Census Bureau, and healthcare directories, will be examined to estimate this ratio. However, the exact physician-to-patient ratio can fluctuate, and data may not always be completely up-to-date.

Standout practices within the area are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive prostate cancer care. This includes practices that offer or have strong referral relationships for: advanced screening techniques (such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams, and potentially newer imaging modalities like multiparametric MRI), timely referrals to urologists, and patient education programs. Practices that emphasize patient-centered care, including clear communication, shared decision-making, and support for patients and their families, are also considered exemplary. Identifying these practices involves examining online reviews, practice websites, and potentially contacting local healthcare providers for insights.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within Powellsville is assessed by examining the availability of telehealth services among local primary care practices and any associated urology practices. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and medication management. The extent to which practices offer telehealth options, the ease of use of their platforms, and the types of services offered via telemedicine are key considerations. The analysis will investigate whether practices have implemented telehealth solutions and how these solutions are being utilized.

The integration of mental health resources into prostate cancer care is increasingly recognized as essential. A prostate cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a man's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will investigate whether primary care practices and any associated urology practices in the area provide access to mental health support. This includes assessing whether they have on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with local mental health providers, or referral pathways for patients needing psychological support. The availability of resources such as support groups, counseling services, and educational materials will also be considered.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, urologists are crucial for diagnosing and treating prostate cancer. The proximity of urology practices to Powellsville and the ease of referral from local PCPs are important. Additionally, access to other specialists, such as radiation oncologists and medical oncologists, who are involved in treatment, is important. The analysis will examine the geographical distribution of these specialists and the referral patterns of local primary care practices.

The quality of care is also important. This analysis will consider the availability of quality metrics for prostate cancer care. For example, the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and other organizations publish data on the performance of healthcare providers. The analysis will examine whether any of the local practices participate in quality improvement programs or publicly report their performance on relevant metrics. The analysis will also consider the availability of patient satisfaction surveys and other feedback mechanisms.

Navigating the healthcare system can be complex. The analysis will consider the availability of patient navigation services. Patient navigators can help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and the healthcare system. They can also help patients schedule appointments, manage their medications, and access financial assistance. The analysis will examine whether any of the local practices offer patient navigation services.

The analysis will also consider the cost of care. Prostate cancer treatment can be expensive, and the cost of care can vary depending on the type of treatment and the patient's insurance coverage. The analysis will examine the availability of information on the cost of care and the availability of financial assistance programs.

In conclusion, the prostate cancer care landscape in Powellsville, NC, is shaped by a combination of factors, including the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of specialist care. The analysis will provide a detailed overview of these factors, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. This information can be valuable for individuals seeking care, healthcare providers, and policymakers working to improve healthcare access in the area.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Powellsville and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your care.