27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.17 percent of the residents in 27978 has some form of health insurance. 44.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.99 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 27978 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 67 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27978. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 51 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 364 health care providers accessible to residents in 27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on prostate cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 27978, encompassing Stumpy Point, North Carolina. This assessment considers primary care availability, a crucial element in early detection and management of prostate cancer, and examines the landscape of healthcare resources available to residents. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare environment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for most healthcare needs, including prostate cancer screening and referrals. The physician-to-patient ratio within Stumpy Point and the surrounding areas is a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of PCPs for the population size, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced preventative care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility to PCPs, potentially leading to improved health outcomes. Researching the current PCP-to-patient ratio in the immediate area is essential. This would require examining publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, specifically the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs across the ZIP Code is important. Are they concentrated in one specific location, or are they geographically dispersed, making them more accessible to residents in different parts of Stumpy Point? Accessibility also considers factors such as transportation limitations, particularly for elderly residents or those with disabilities. Public transportation options, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the proximity of medical facilities to residential areas all play a role.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves evaluating factors such as the use of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening and management, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of specialized services. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams (DREs), are particularly noteworthy. Examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and any available data on practice performance can help identify those practices that excel in patient care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Stumpy Point. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a key consideration. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, or medication management? Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making healthcare more convenient and accessible for residents. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient-centered care. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered and the ease of use of the platform, is essential.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be significant. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a crucial component of comprehensive care. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, available within the community or accessible through referrals from local PCPs? Does the healthcare system offer support groups or other resources for patients and their families? The availability of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by prostate cancer. Researching the availability of mental health services, including the types of services offered, the qualifications of the providers, and the ease of access, is vital.

The infrastructure supporting prostate cancer care extends beyond PCPs. The availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as MRI and ultrasound, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging. The proximity of specialists, such as urologists and oncologists, is also a critical factor. The presence of a local hospital or clinic with the capacity to provide advanced treatment options, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, is highly desirable. Assessing the availability of these resources, including the distance to the nearest facilities and the types of services offered, is essential.

Another factor to consider is the patient's financial burden. The cost of healthcare, including the cost of screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment, can be a significant barrier to access. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices is an important consideration. Does the practice accept Medicare, Medicaid, and other private insurance plans? The availability of financial assistance programs or payment plans can also make healthcare more accessible for low-income residents. Researching the cost of care, the acceptance of insurance plans, and the availability of financial assistance programs is essential.

Prostate cancer care is a multifaceted process, and the effectiveness of the healthcare system depends on the collaboration of various healthcare professionals. The level of coordination between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers is an important consideration. Does the practice have a system in place for sharing patient information and coordinating care? The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can facilitate this process. Practices that prioritize communication and collaboration are more likely to provide high-quality, coordinated care.

The overall assessment of prostate cancer care accessibility and quality in Stumpy Point is based on the collective evaluation of these factors. A comprehensive analysis would provide a detailed understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare. This analysis would also provide valuable information for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations, helping them identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance the quality of care.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 27978 and gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping capabilities can provide a detailed, interactive view of healthcare facilities, physician locations, and other relevant data points, offering a valuable perspective on the accessibility and availability of care.