27986, Winton, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27986, Winton, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 46.20 percent of the residents in 27986 has some form of health insurance. 24.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 32.29 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 27986 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 283 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27986. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 193 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 34 health care providers accessible to residents in 27986, Winton, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27986 & Primary Care Availability in Winton

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 27986, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in the nearby town of Winton. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This information will help residents understand the healthcare options available to them and highlight areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management relies heavily on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and proactive patient education are crucial for positive outcomes. Winton, as a primary care hub for the surrounding area, plays a vital role in this process. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians is the first step. We need to determine the physician-to-patient ratio in Winton. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care, including prostate cancer screenings. This ratio needs to be compared to both state and national averages to determine the relative adequacy of access.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are the primary care physicians in Winton well-versed in the latest prostate cancer screening guidelines? Do they proactively discuss risk factors, such as family history and age, with their male patients? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is also significant. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between primary care physicians and specialists, ensuring continuity of care and reducing the risk of errors. The adoption of patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records and communicate with their doctors online, can also improve engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

Within ZIP code 27986, the availability of specialists, particularly urologists, is another critical factor. The proximity of these specialists to primary care physicians in Winton is important for timely referrals and coordinated care. The presence of a urology practice within the ZIP code or a short travel distance is a positive indicator. The reputation of these specialists is also important. Are they highly regarded by their peers and patients? Do they have a strong track record of successful outcomes? Information about specialist availability can be gathered from local hospital websites, insurance provider directories, and online reviews.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, and its impact on prostate cancer care is substantial. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations. The extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in the region utilize telemedicine is an important factor to consider. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patient health, and the use of digital tools for patient education. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas, as it can improve access to specialized care and reduce travel burdens.

The integration of mental health resources into prostate cancer care is often overlooked, but it is crucial for overall well-being. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact on patients, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the primary care setting or through referrals to external providers, is a vital component of comprehensive care. Assessing the presence of these resources, and the ease with which patients can access them, is a key element of this analysis.

Standout practices within the region should be identified. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in prostate cancer care, perhaps through innovative treatment approaches, patient-centered care models, or a strong commitment to patient education. Identifying these practices and highlighting their best practices can serve as a model for other providers in the area. This can be achieved by looking at patient satisfaction scores, physician certifications, and awards.

Finally, the overall healthcare ecosystem in the area needs to be considered. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated urology department or a cancer center can significantly improve the quality of care. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI and PET scans, is also important for accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer. Collaboration between different healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals, is essential for delivering coordinated and effective care.

The final ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ is a composite measure reflecting all these factors. It would be a relative ranking, comparing the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 27986 and Winton to other regions, and would be used to help residents and healthcare providers understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The scoring methodology would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, the presence of standout practices, and the overall healthcare ecosystem.

This analysis, however, is just a starting point. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments in prostate cancer care. Further research, including interviews with patients and healthcare providers, is needed to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this area.