28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.15 percent of the residents in 28357 has some form of health insurance. 51.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.75 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 28357 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 525 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28357. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 388 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,765 health care providers accessible to residents in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Lumber Bridge, NC (ZIP Code 28357)**

Evaluating the landscape of prostate cancer care in Lumber Bridge, North Carolina (ZIP code 28357) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), a crucial entry point for early detection and referral, alongside other factors. The goal is to assess the accessibility and quality of care for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with prostate cancer within this specific geographic area.

Lumber Bridge, a small community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often experience shortages. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This directly impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score," as timely intervention is paramount for positive outcomes.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of prostate cancer screening and management. PCPs are the first line of defense, conducting initial assessments, ordering prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. A robust primary care network is vital for early detection, which significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. A limited number of PCPs in Lumber Bridge, coupled with potential travel distances to specialists, could negatively impact the score.

Standout practices, if any, in the area would significantly improve the overall score. These practices might be recognized for their patient-centered approach, advanced diagnostic capabilities, or successful patient outcomes. Identifying practices that actively promote prostate cancer awareness, offer comprehensive screening programs, and provide supportive care would be essential. Unfortunately, the limited population of Lumber Bridge and its surrounding area might mean a lack of specialized urology practices within the immediate vicinity.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in bridging the healthcare gap, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to expertise. Practices that embrace telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of therapy would receive a higher score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a factor, as it is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and its treatment, can be emotionally taxing. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential for patients to cope with the psychological impact of the disease. The availability of these resources, whether integrated within primary care practices or offered through external providers, contributes to the overall quality of care and positively influences the score.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lumber Bridge, NC, would likely be impacted by the factors discussed. Due to the inherent limitations of a rural setting, such as a lower physician-to-patient ratio and the potential for limited specialist availability, the score might be lower than in more urban areas. However, the score could be improved by factors such as the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of practices with a strong focus on patient education and support, and the availability of mental health resources.

The score is not simply a numerical value; it represents the overall quality of care available to individuals in the community. It highlights areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding access to specialists, and promoting preventative care. The score also emphasizes the importance of patient education and support, as well as the need for integrated mental health services.

In conclusion, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lumber Bridge, NC (28357) is a complex assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. While the rural nature of the area presents challenges, the community can work to improve access to care, promote early detection, and provide comprehensive support for those affected by prostate cancer. The score is a dynamic measure, and it can be improved through targeted interventions and community efforts.

For a more detailed visual representation of healthcare access, physician locations, and related demographic data in Lumber Bridge and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas with the greatest need and visualize the distribution of resources.