28430, Cerro Gordo, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28430, Cerro Gordo, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.36 percent of the residents in 28430 has some form of health insurance. 39.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.72 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 28430 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 425 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28430. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 407 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,238 health care providers accessible to residents in 28430, Cerro Gordo, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Cerro Gordo, NC (ZIP Code 28430)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning prostate cancer, within Cerro Gordo, North Carolina (ZIP code 28430) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess the physician-to-patient ratio, identify standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and consider the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements influencing the overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for this community. This score, while not a formal metric, represents a qualitative assessment of the resources available to men facing prostate cancer risks or diagnoses.

Cerro Gordo, a small, rural community, likely faces unique healthcare challenges. The first consideration is the **availability of primary care physicians (PCPs)**. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for healthcare, including preventative screenings like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, and referrals to urologists if necessary. A shortage of PCPs can significantly delay diagnosis and treatment, negatively impacting the Prostate Cancer Score. Researching the exact number of PCPs practicing within the 28430 ZIP code is the initial step. This data, often available through state medical boards or online physician directories, provides a baseline understanding of access.

Following PCP availability, the **physician-to-patient ratio** is critical. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential difficulty in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship. This is particularly detrimental in prostate cancer care, where early detection and ongoing management are essential. Public health data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) or the US Census Bureau can provide population figures for Cerro Gordo, allowing for the calculation of this ratio. Comparing this ratio to state and national averages offers context and highlights potential disparities.

Identifying **standout practices** involves evaluating the quality of care offered by existing medical facilities. This requires research into the practices themselves, including their staff, services, and patient reviews. Factors to consider include the presence of board-certified urologists, access to advanced diagnostic equipment (e.g., MRI machines), and participation in clinical trials. Online resources like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the local hospital's website can provide valuable insights. Positive patient reviews, indicating compassionate care and effective treatment, are a strong indicator of a practice's quality. Moreover, affiliations with larger healthcare systems can offer access to a wider range of specialists and resources.

**Telemedicine adoption** is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely using technology, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas. It can facilitate consultations with specialists, provide follow-up appointments, and offer educational resources. The availability of telemedicine services, particularly for urology consultations and prostate cancer management, can positively impact the Prostate Cancer Score. Researching the local practices to determine if they offer telehealth options is essential.

**Mental health resources** are often overlooked but are vital for men facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological impact of a diagnosis, treatment, and potential side effects can be significant. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services can greatly improve a patient's quality of life and overall well-being. Assessing the availability of these resources within the 28430 ZIP code, including mental health clinics, therapists, and support groups, is a critical component of the analysis. The presence of these resources can contribute to a higher Prostate Cancer Score.

The analysis should also consider the potential for **health disparities** within the community. Factors such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence access to care and health outcomes. Understanding the demographics of Cerro Gordo and identifying any disparities in healthcare access is important for a comprehensive assessment. Data from the US Census Bureau and local community organizations can provide insights into these factors.

In conclusion, evaluating the Prostate Cancer Score for Cerro Gordo, NC (ZIP code 28430) requires a comprehensive analysis of healthcare resources. The availability of PCPs, the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall score. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. The findings can inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members, ultimately working to improve the health outcomes for men facing prostate cancer risks or diagnoses.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Cerro Gordo, NC, including the location of medical facilities, and the availability of healthcare resources, consider exploring **CartoChrome maps**. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare services and help identify potential gaps in care within the community.