28403, Wilmington, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.41 percent of the residents in 28403 has some form of health insurance. 24.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.55 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 28403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,239 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28403. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,082 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,878 health care providers accessible to residents in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina.

Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28403)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Wilmington, North Carolina's 28403 ZIP code necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability and quality of urological specialists but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care access and mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced "Prostate Cancer Score," evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare environment for men facing this diagnosis.

Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Critical Metric

One of the primary determinants of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Wilmington, and specifically within the 28403 ZIP code, the ratio of urologists to the male population over 50 (the demographic most at risk for prostate cancer) is a crucial indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer urologists per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially, less effective treatment outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, alongside information from local hospital systems, are necessary to accurately calculate this ratio. The analysis should also factor in the geographic distribution of urologists within the ZIP code, considering that proximity to a specialist significantly impacts access to care.

Primary Care Availability: The Foundation of Early Detection

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a pivotal role in prostate cancer screening and early detection. Their ability to conduct routine prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and perform digital rectal exams (DREs) is critical. The availability of PCPs within the 28403 ZIP code, therefore, directly impacts the likelihood of timely diagnosis. A high concentration of PCPs, coupled with readily available appointments, contributes to a higher Prostate Cancer Score. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs, or long wait times for appointments, can hinder early detection efforts, potentially leading to more advanced-stage diagnoses and poorer prognoses.

Standout Practices: Centers of Excellence

Identifying standout practices and hospitals within the 28403 ZIP code is essential. These centers often possess advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities, including robotic-assisted surgery, advanced imaging technologies (e.g., MRI fusion biopsy), and access to clinical trials. Analyzing the reputation of these practices, based on patient reviews, physician referrals, and outcomes data, is crucial. Hospitals like New Hanover Regional Medical Center (now part of Novant Health) are likely key players. Assessing the accreditation status of these facilities, their commitment to patient-centered care, and their integration of multidisciplinary teams (urologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and support staff) are all critical elements in evaluating their contribution to the Prostate Cancer Score.

Telemedicine Adoption: Expanding Access

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by urology practices and primary care providers within the 28403 ZIP code can significantly impact the Prostate Cancer Score. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for in-person visits and improving patient convenience. The availability of telehealth services, the ease of use of these platforms, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care continuum are important factors to consider.

Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Psychological Impact

A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a profound psychological impact on men, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, support groups, and counseling services, is a crucial component of comprehensive prostate cancer care. Assessing the accessibility of these resources, their integration into the treatment plan, and the level of collaboration between urologists, oncologists, and mental health professionals are essential. The Prostate Cancer Score should reflect the availability of these critical support services.

Specific Considerations for Wilmington (28403)

Wilmington, being a coastal city with a growing population, faces unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The influx of retirees, many of whom are in the age group most susceptible to prostate cancer, increases the demand for urological services. The city's geographic layout, with potential disparities in access to care based on location, must also be considered. Furthermore, the impact of local economic factors and insurance coverage rates on access to care should be evaluated.

The analysis should delve into the specific practices and hospitals within the 28403 ZIP code, identifying those that excel in prostate cancer care. This includes evaluating the expertise of individual urologists, their use of advanced technologies, and their patient outcomes. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and educational resources, should also be assessed.

The Prostate Cancer Score, ultimately, is not a single number but a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare ecosystem. It reflects the interplay of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, primary care access, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This score provides a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of prostate cancer care within the 28403 ZIP code, allowing for informed decision-making by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

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