28326, Cameron, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28326, Cameron, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.09 percent of the residents in 28326 has some form of health insurance. 23.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.70 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 28326 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,726 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28326. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,835 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,852 health care providers accessible to residents in 28326, Cameron, North Carolina.

This analysis delves into the prostate cancer care landscape within ZIP code 28326, encompassing the town of Cameron, North Carolina, with a focus on primary care access and associated factors. Evaluating the quality and accessibility of healthcare is crucial for residents, particularly concerning a disease like prostate cancer, where early detection and consistent follow-up are paramount. We will explore the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), their practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately painting a picture of the healthcare environment in this specific area.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests heavily on the availability and accessibility of primary care. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact, providing screening recommendations, coordinating specialist referrals, and managing overall patient health. In Cameron (ZIP code 28326), the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Data on this specific ratio is often dynamic and dependent on a variety of factors, including population fluctuations and physician availability. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer insights into primary care access, identifying areas that may be designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). If Cameron is identified as an HPSA, it signals a potential shortage of primary care physicians, which could impact the timely diagnosis and management of prostate cancer.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices in the area are significant. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? These practical considerations can significantly affect a patient's ability to access care when needed. Some practices may stand out due to their commitment to patient-centered care, incorporating elements such as proactive outreach for preventative screenings, streamlined referral processes, and clear communication protocols. Identifying these standout practices requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially, direct inquiries to gauge their operational efficiency and patient satisfaction.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. In the context of prostate cancer, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even consultations with specialists. Examining the telemedicine capabilities of local primary care practices, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, is vital. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely better equipped to provide ongoing support and monitoring, which are essential components of effective prostate cancer management.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as an integral part of comprehensive healthcare. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is therefore highly beneficial. This can involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with community organizations that provide counseling and support groups. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources within primary care practices is an important aspect of evaluating the overall quality of care.

Specific practices within ZIP code 28326, if identifiable through publicly available information or patient reviews, would be evaluated based on the factors outlined above. This would involve assessing their patient-to-physician ratio, their acceptance of new patients, their operational hours, and their telemedicine capabilities. Further, their integration of mental health resources, such as on-site therapists or referral networks, would be considered. This detailed analysis would help to identify practices that excel in providing patient-centered care and those that may have opportunities for improvement.

The overall healthcare landscape in Cameron, NC (ZIP code 28326) is dynamic and subject to change. Ongoing monitoring of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is essential to ensure that residents have access to the best possible care. This includes staying informed about any new practices opening, changes in existing practices, and advancements in telemedicine technology. Regular review of patient reviews and feedback is also critical for understanding patient experiences and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care environment in Cameron, NC (ZIP code 28326) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, the operational characteristics of their practices, their adoption of telemedicine, and their integration of mental health resources. This comprehensive analysis is essential for identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in the local healthcare system. This will help to ensure that residents have access to the timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and ongoing support they need to manage prostate cancer effectively.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cameron, NC (ZIP code 28326), including the locations of primary care practices, telemedicine availability, and mental health resources, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, data-driven visualization of healthcare access, allowing you to explore the area and identify the resources that best meet your needs.