28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.94 percent of the residents in 28365 has some form of health insurance. 40.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.11 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 28365 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,324 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 13 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28365. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,044 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,502 health care providers accessible to residents in 28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28365 and Primary Care in Mount Olive

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of prostate cancer care, specifically within ZIP code 28365 and the broader context of primary care access in Mount Olive, North Carolina. The assessment considers factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and management of prostate cancer, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all of which significantly impact patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Mount Olive, as a community, needs a robust primary care infrastructure to ensure early screening and referrals. A significant challenge is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative care, including prostate cancer screenings. The analysis will attempt to estimate this ratio, though precise figures are often difficult to obtain due to the dynamic nature of medical staffing and patient demographics. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the North Carolina Medical Board will be consulted to determine the general availability of primary care physicians.

Within ZIP code 28365, the presence of urologists is a critical indicator. Urologists are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the male reproductive system, including prostate cancer. The number of practicing urologists within the specified ZIP code, or within a reasonable driving distance, directly impacts the speed and quality of care. A higher concentration of urologists generally translates to better access to specialized expertise, advanced diagnostic tools, and potentially, participation in clinical trials. The analysis will identify any urology practices in the area, assessing their staffing levels, services offered (e.g., biopsy capabilities, advanced imaging), and patient reviews, if available.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive prostate cancer care. These practices often incorporate several key elements. They might offer advanced diagnostic technologies, such as MRI fusion biopsies, which improve the accuracy of diagnosis. They might also have a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between urologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and other specialists to provide a holistic treatment plan. The analysis will attempt to identify practices that excel in these areas, highlighting their strengths and contributions to patient care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Mount Olive. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This can be especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations for second opinions, and managing side effects of treatment. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local practices have adopted telemedicine technologies, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the patient experience with these virtual consultations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked aspect of prostate cancer care, but they are crucial. A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient’s emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support, such as counseling, support groups, and access to psychiatrists, is vital for helping patients cope with the emotional and psychological effects of their illness. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health services in the Mount Olive area, including whether local primary care practices or urology practices offer mental health support or referrals.

The evaluation of these factors will contribute to a "Prostate Cancer Score" for the area. This score is not a definitive grading system, but rather a composite of the various elements discussed. The score will reflect the overall level of access to care, the quality of services available, and the support systems in place for patients. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for prostate cancer care, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement. The analysis will attempt to contextualize the score by comparing it to regional and national averages, where possible.

Primary care availability in Mount Olive is a critical factor. The analysis will consider the number of primary care physicians, their accessibility (e.g., appointment availability, wait times), and their integration of prostate cancer screening guidelines. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, making them essential for early detection. The analysis will also consider the presence of community health centers or other resources that may improve access to primary care for underserved populations.

The evaluation will consider the availability of resources for prostate cancer education and awareness. This includes the availability of informational materials, support groups, and community outreach programs. Increased awareness can empower patients to take proactive steps in their health, including seeking early screening and diagnosis. The analysis will attempt to identify any local organizations or initiatives that are working to raise awareness about prostate cancer.

The analysis will also consider the availability of advanced treatment options. This includes the presence of radiation therapy facilities, surgical options (e.g., robotic-assisted prostatectomy), and access to clinical trials. The availability of these options can significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life. The analysis will attempt to identify any local facilities that offer these advanced treatment options.

The final "Prostate Cancer Score" will be a nuanced assessment, acknowledging the complexities of healthcare delivery in a rural setting. It will highlight strengths and weaknesses, providing a snapshot of the current state of prostate cancer care in ZIP code 28365 and the surrounding area. This analysis is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers for personalized recommendations and treatment plans.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Olive and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and identifying areas of need.