28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.00 percent of the residents in 28387 has some form of health insurance. 33.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.89 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 28387 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,650 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28387. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,600 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,405 health care providers accessible to residents in 28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina.

Prostate cancer is a significant health concern, and access to quality care is paramount. This analysis evaluates the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 28387 (Southern Pines, North Carolina) and the broader context of primary care availability in the Southern Pines area. We'll examine key factors influencing patient outcomes, including physician availability, practice characteristics, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access to care. In Southern Pines, understanding this ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) and, more specifically, urologists, is critical. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to approximate this ratio. This data, combined with information from local hospitals and clinics, provides a baseline understanding of the availability of specialists crucial for prostate cancer management.

Standout practices within the 28387 ZIP code often distinguish themselves through several key attributes. These include advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as access to state-of-the-art imaging technologies like MRI and PET scans. Furthermore, practices that offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, bringing together urologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and other specialists, are highly valued. This collaborative model ensures a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan. Reputation is also critical. Patient reviews, testimonials, and ratings from organizations like Healthgrades or Vitals can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the overall experience at a particular practice.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The use of telehealth has expanded rapidly in recent years, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. For prostate cancer patients, telemedicine can offer several advantages, including easier access to follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists, especially those who may be located outside of Southern Pines. Practices that embrace telemedicine platforms, offering secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care.

The mental health needs of prostate cancer patients are often overlooked, but they are essential to overall well-being. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can lead to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as counselors, therapists, and support groups, is therefore crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This might include on-site therapists, referrals to local mental health providers, or partnerships with support organizations.

The analysis should also consider the availability of local hospitals and cancer centers. These institutions often serve as hubs for specialized care, offering advanced treatments like radiation therapy and surgical interventions. The proximity of these facilities to the patient's residence is a significant factor in convenience and access. The presence of clinical trials and research opportunities within these institutions can also be advantageous, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and innovative approaches to care.

Furthermore, the analysis should explore the availability of patient education resources. Prostate cancer patients benefit from comprehensive information about their condition, treatment options, and potential side effects. Practices that provide educational materials, offer patient education sessions, or have dedicated patient navigators can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. This includes access to information on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, that can support overall health and well-being.

In evaluating primary care availability in Southern Pines, the analysis should extend beyond the immediate ZIP code. Patients may seek care outside of their immediate area, so it's important to consider the broader network of PCPs and specialists within the surrounding counties. This includes assessing the availability of urgent care clinics, which can provide timely access to care for acute medical needs. The analysis should also consider the insurance landscape, including the acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers. This ensures that patients have access to affordable care.

The overall 'Prostate Cancer Score' for doctors in ZIP Code 28387 and primary care availability in Southern Pines is a complex calculation, taking into account the factors mentioned above. It's not a single number but rather a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. This score can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their care, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to allocate resources effectively.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape in Southern Pines and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to use CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points. This allows for a more in-depth understanding of the accessibility of care and the overall healthcare infrastructure. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the prostate cancer care landscape in Southern Pines.