28424, Brunswick, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28424, Brunswick, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28424 has some form of health insurance. 58.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.73 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 28424 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28424. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 24 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,268 health care providers accessible to residents in 28424, Brunswick, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28424 and Primary Care Availability in Brunswick County, North Carolina**

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to the quality and accessibility of its healthcare services. This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care and primary care availability within ZIP code 28424 (primarily encompassing the town of Calabash, North Carolina) and the broader context of Brunswick County. The objective is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the existing resources, identify areas of strength, and pinpoint potential gaps that need addressing to ensure optimal patient outcomes. This assessment will consider physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors impacting the overall 'Prostate Cancer Score'.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care**

One of the fundamental indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Brunswick County, the availability of primary care physicians and specialists, including urologists who specialize in prostate cancer, significantly influences the ease with which patients can obtain timely diagnoses and treatments. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios can fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the US Census Bureau provide valuable insights. These data points, coupled with information on physician distribution across the county, help paint a picture of access. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally suggests greater access to care, while a higher ratio may indicate potential challenges in securing appointments and receiving prompt medical attention. The geographical distribution of physicians within Brunswick County is also crucial. Are specialists concentrated in specific areas, creating potential disparities in access for residents in more remote locations?

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout medical practices within and near ZIP code 28424 is essential. These practices often serve as beacons of quality care, demonstrating best practices in prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Factors to consider include the use of advanced diagnostic tools (such as MRI and advanced biopsy techniques), the availability of minimally invasive surgical options, and the integration of multidisciplinary care teams (including urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and support staff). Practices that prioritize patient education and support groups also contribute positively to the patient experience. Researching the reputation of these practices, patient testimonials, and accreditations from organizations like the American College of Surgeons provides valuable insights into their quality of care. Examining the availability of these resources within the immediate vicinity of 28424 and the ease of access for patients living in the area is also critical.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role**

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. The adoption of telemedicine by medical practices in and around 28424 can significantly impact the 'Prostate Cancer Score'. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for routine care. The availability of telemedicine can also improve access to specialists who may not be physically located in the immediate area. Examining the extent to which local practices have integrated telemedicine into their services, the types of services offered virtually, and the ease of use for patients are important factors to consider. Additionally, assessing the availability of reliable internet access in the area is essential for ensuring equitable access to telemedicine services.

**Mental Health Resources and Prostate Cancer Care**

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive prostate cancer care. These resources may include access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatrists who can help patients cope with the emotional challenges associated with the disease. Assessing the availability of these resources within Brunswick County, including their proximity to 28424, and the ease with which patients can access them is vital. Examining the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, such as screening for depression and anxiety, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

**Primary Care Availability and Early Detection**

The availability of primary care physicians is critical for early detection and management of prostate cancer. Primary care physicians play a vital role in screening patients for prostate cancer through the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exams. The ease with which patients can access primary care physicians in Brunswick County, including those within and near 28424, directly influences the likelihood of early detection. The availability of timely appointments, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the geographic distribution of primary care practices are all important factors to consider. Furthermore, the extent to which primary care physicians are educated about prostate cancer screening guidelines and best practices also impacts patient care.

**Conclusion**

Assessing the 'Prostate Cancer Score' for the area requires a multifaceted approach. The analysis must consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of primary care services. Each of these factors contributes to the overall quality and accessibility of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28424 and the broader Brunswick County area. By understanding these factors, we can identify areas of strength and areas that require improvement. This information can then be used to advocate for policies and initiatives that promote better healthcare outcomes for residents.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Brunswick County, including the distribution of physicians, access to care, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.