28393, Turkey, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28393, Turkey, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.70 percent of the residents in 28393 has some form of health insurance. 52.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.06 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 28393 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 431 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28393. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 556 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,056 health care providers accessible to residents in 28393, Turkey, North Carolina.

The analysis below assesses the quality of prostate cancer care available to patients in ZIP Code 28393, while simultaneously providing a comparative overview of primary care accessibility and resources in Turkey. The methodology combines publicly available data, expert opinions, and anecdotal evidence where appropriate, recognizing the limitations of a purely quantitative approach in evaluating complex healthcare systems.

**Prostate Cancer Care in ZIP Code 28393**

ZIP Code 28393, encompassing the town of Raeford, North Carolina, presents a healthcare landscape shaped by its rural setting and proximity to military installations. Evaluating prostate cancer care requires considering several key factors, including the availability of qualified specialists, access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and the integration of supportive services.

The physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP code is a critical starting point. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the US Census Bureau is essential to determine the number of urologists and oncologists serving the population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer specialists per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The impact of this ratio is amplified by the aging population common in many rural areas and the prevalence of prostate cancer among older men.

Standout practices within or near 28393 are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive prostate cancer care. This includes not only skilled surgeons and radiation oncologists but also a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates medical oncologists, nurses specializing in oncology, and support staff trained in patient education and emotional support. Practices that offer access to advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI and PET scans, and minimally invasive surgical techniques, like robotic-assisted prostatectomy, are generally considered to be providing a higher level of care. Furthermore, the availability of clinical trials and research opportunities within the practice or through affiliations with larger medical centers can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in bridging the geographical gaps in healthcare access. Practices that utilize telemedicine for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education can improve the convenience and efficiency of care, particularly for patients who live in remote areas or have mobility limitations. The effectiveness of telemedicine, however, depends on factors such as reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the ability of the healthcare provider to conduct thorough virtual examinations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, support groups, and other resources can help patients cope with the psychological and emotional aspects of their illness. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care.

**Primary Care Availability in Turkey**

The Turkish healthcare system, undergoing significant reforms in recent years, presents a different set of challenges and opportunities regarding primary care access. Assessing the situation requires considering factors such as the distribution of healthcare professionals, the availability of primary care facilities, and the impact of government policies.

Turkey’s physician-to-patient ratio varies considerably across different regions. Urban areas typically have a higher concentration of doctors compared to rural or less developed regions. This disparity can create significant inequalities in access to primary care, with patients in underserved areas facing longer travel times and potentially reduced quality of care. The government's efforts to incentivize doctors to practice in rural areas, through financial incentives or other means, are crucial in addressing this imbalance.

The availability of primary care facilities, including both public and private clinics, is another critical factor. The number of clinics, their geographic distribution, and their operating hours all influence patient access. Public health centers (Sağlık Ocakları) play a significant role in providing primary care services, particularly in rural areas. The quality of care within these facilities, including the availability of diagnostic equipment and the training of healthcare professionals, is a key indicator of the overall health system's effectiveness.

Government policies, such as the implementation of universal health insurance (Genel Sağlık Sigortası), have a significant impact on primary care access. These policies aim to increase the number of people covered by health insurance and to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare services. The effectiveness of these policies depends on factors such as the affordability of premiums, the coverage of essential services, and the efficiency of the healthcare administration.

Telemedicine, as in the US, is gaining traction in Turkey. The use of telemedicine can improve access to primary care, especially for patients in remote areas or those with mobility limitations. However, the widespread adoption of telemedicine depends on factors such as the availability of internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the regulatory framework governing telemedicine practice.

Mental health resources are also an important consideration in Turkey’s primary care landscape. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing mental health problems. The availability of mental health training for primary care physicians, as well as the referral pathways to specialized mental health services, are critical for ensuring that patients receive appropriate care. Cultural factors and the stigma associated with mental illness can also influence access to mental health services.

**Comparative Analysis and Conclusion**

While distinct in their contexts, both ZIP Code 28393 and Turkey's healthcare systems face challenges in ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare. In 28393, the rural setting and potential specialist shortages require a focus on telemedicine, efficient resource allocation, and comprehensive care models. Turkey must contend with regional disparities, the need for continuous improvements in infrastructure, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health services.

The effectiveness of healthcare systems depends on a complex interplay of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of advanced technologies, the integration of telemedicine, and the provision of mental health resources. A comprehensive assessment requires a multifaceted approach that considers both quantitative data and qualitative factors.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in both regions, including the geographic distribution of specialists, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that can help you understand the complexities of healthcare access and identify areas for improvement.