28371, Parkton, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.34 percent of the residents in 28371 has some form of health insurance. 39.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.94 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 28371 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,286 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28371. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 670 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,362 health care providers accessible to residents in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Parkton, NC (ZIP Code 28371)

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28371, focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to patients. The goal is to assess the quality of care, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support. This information provides a snapshot of the healthcare environment in Parkton, North Carolina, and aims to inform residents about their options.

The foundation of prostate cancer care often rests on the shoulders of primary care physicians (PCPs). They are typically the first point of contact, responsible for initial screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing management. Assessing the availability of PCPs is therefore crucial. In Parkton (28371), the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the area may face challenges in PCP accessibility. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care, including prostate cancer screenings.

The quality of primary care also hinges on the characteristics of the medical practices. Are the practices well-equipped with the latest diagnostic tools? Do they have a history of early detection and successful treatment outcomes? Researching the practices in the area is essential. This includes looking into the training and experience of the physicians, the availability of on-site laboratory services, and their affiliations with larger healthcare systems that offer specialized care. Some practices may stand out for their commitment to patient education, offering resources about prostate cancer risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor in evaluating the quality of care. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Parkton. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer more convenient appointments, reduce travel burdens, and provide ongoing support to patients managing their condition. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of virtual consultations offered and the ease of use of the platforms, is a key part of the evaluation.

Beyond the medical aspects of prostate cancer care, the availability of mental health resources is also critical. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Practices that recognize this and offer access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes assessing the availability of mental health counseling, support groups, and other resources that can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological impact of the disease.

The success of prostate cancer treatment often depends on the collaboration between PCPs, urologists, oncologists, and other specialists. Evaluating the referral patterns of local PCPs is important. Do they have established relationships with experienced urologists and oncologists? Are they able to facilitate timely referrals for diagnostic tests, such as biopsies and imaging studies? The quality of these referral networks can significantly impact the speed and effectiveness of treatment.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized prostate cancer treatment centers within a reasonable distance is another factor. These centers often offer advanced treatment options, such as robotic surgery, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. While Parkton may not have such a center directly, the proximity to larger cities with specialized facilities is a significant advantage. Assessing the travel time to these centers and the availability of transportation assistance for patients is essential.

The role of patient education and support cannot be overstated. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing clear and concise information about prostate cancer, treatment options, and side effects, can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. This includes offering educational materials, support groups, and access to patient navigators who can guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system.

The overall assessment of prostate cancer care in Parkton (28371) involves a comprehensive evaluation of all these factors. While this analysis cannot provide a definitive score, it highlights the key elements that contribute to the quality of care. The availability of PCPs, the characteristics of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the referral patterns of PCPs, the proximity to specialized treatment centers, and the emphasis on patient education all play a crucial role.

In conclusion, the quality of prostate cancer care in Parkton, NC, is a multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration of various factors. While this analysis offers insights into the healthcare landscape, further research and investigation are recommended to gain a complete understanding. For a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare resources in Parkton and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.