28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.16 percent of the residents in 28428 has some form of health insurance. 30.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.05 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 28428 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 968 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 14 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28428. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,411 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19,460 health care providers accessible to residents in 28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, particularly within the context of a specific geographic area, demands a nuanced understanding of healthcare access, physician expertise, and available resources. This analysis focuses on the landscape for prostate cancer care in ZIP code 28428, encompassing Carolina Beach, North Carolina, with a particular emphasis on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and the overall quality of care. We will assess the resources available to men in this area, including telemedicine options and mental health support, to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare environment.

The initial assessment involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code. This metric provides a baseline understanding of the potential for timely access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally indicates better access. However, this metric alone is insufficient. We must consider the types of physicians available, specifically the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and urologists, as these are the front lines in prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. A low number of PCPs can lead to delays in initial screening, while a shortage of urologists can hinder timely specialist consultation and treatment.

Primary care availability is a critical factor. PCPs play a vital role in early detection through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams. The accessibility of primary care practices, including the ease of scheduling appointments and the availability of same-day or urgent care options, significantly impacts the timeliness of diagnosis. Furthermore, the integration of primary care with specialist referrals is crucial for a seamless patient journey. Robust referral networks and clear communication channels between PCPs and urologists are essential for optimal care.

Standout practices within the 28428 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive prostate cancer care. This includes practices that offer advanced diagnostic tools, such as high-resolution imaging and biopsy techniques. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or offer access to cutting-edge treatments are also highly valued. Additionally, practices that prioritize patient education and support, providing resources on lifestyle modifications, side effect management, and emotional well-being, deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to improve access to care, particularly in areas with limited physician availability. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The availability of telemedicine options, especially for those with mobility issues or living in remote areas, can significantly enhance the patient experience. Practices that embrace telemedicine and integrate it seamlessly into their workflow are demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are essential. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, specializing in oncology, is crucial. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or provide referrals to mental health providers demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Support groups and educational programs that address the emotional and psychological aspects of cancer can also be invaluable.

Assessing the quality of care also involves examining the patient experience. Patient satisfaction surveys, online reviews, and testimonials provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by individual practices. These sources can reveal information about communication, wait times, the overall patient experience, and the effectiveness of treatment. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients are likely to be providing a high level of care.

The evaluation process must also consider the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to radiation therapy centers, chemotherapy facilities, and physical therapy services. The proximity of these services to the patient’s home can significantly impact their quality of life during treatment. Practices that collaborate with these ancillary services and coordinate care effectively are providing a more comprehensive and patient-centered approach.

In conclusion, the prostate cancer care landscape in ZIP code 28428 is a complex interplay of physician availability, primary care accessibility, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. While a precise “score” requires detailed data collection and analysis, this assessment provides a framework for understanding the key factors that contribute to the quality of care. Further investigation into specific practices, their services, and patient feedback is essential for making informed healthcare decisions.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources in the Carolina Beach area, including physician locations, practice information, and access to care data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations that can help you navigate the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.