28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.37 percent of the residents in 28431 has some form of health insurance. 49.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.67 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 28431 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28431. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,098 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,255 health care providers accessible to residents in 28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Chadbourn, NC (ZIP Code 28431)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area requires a nuanced approach. This analysis focuses on Chadbourn, NC (ZIP Code 28431), evaluating factors relevant to prostate cancer care, including physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all within the context of primary care accessibility. While a direct "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a single, universally accepted metric, this analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about prostate health.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors are often the first point of contact, responsible for initial screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing management of patient health. Assessing primary care availability in Chadbourn involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services can provide insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access to care. However, this data alone is insufficient.

Further investigation is needed to determine the actual capacity of these physicians. Factors like appointment availability, acceptance of new patients, and insurance coverage acceptance significantly impact access. A practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio but limited appointment availability may, in practice, offer less access than a practice with a slightly higher ratio but readily available appointments.

Primary care availability in Chadbourn is intrinsically linked to the broader healthcare infrastructure of Columbus County. The presence of hospitals, specialist clinics, and diagnostic facilities within a reasonable distance is crucial. Proximity to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Wilmington or Fayetteville can expand access to specialized prostate cancer care, including urologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical specialists. Travel time and transportation options become important considerations, particularly for elderly patients or those with limited mobility.

Beyond the raw numbers of physicians, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Chadbourn requires examining factors like patient reviews, accreditation status, and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Online review platforms, while not always perfectly representative, can provide insights into patient experiences. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) often indicates a commitment to quality standards. Furthermore, researching whether practices utilize established prostate cancer screening and treatment guidelines is critical. This could involve reviewing their adherence to guidelines from organizations like the American Urological Association (AUA).

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Chadbourn. Researching which primary care practices and specialists offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the insurance coverage for these services is essential. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve convenience, and enhance patient-physician communication.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a crucial component of comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within Chadbourn and the surrounding areas is vital. Investigating whether primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers is equally important. Support groups and counseling services specifically tailored to prostate cancer patients and their families can provide invaluable emotional support and coping mechanisms.

Evaluating the overall healthcare landscape in Chadbourn necessitates considering the socio-economic factors that influence health outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited educational opportunities can all contribute to poorer health outcomes and exacerbate existing health disparities. Understanding the demographics of the community and the presence of community health initiatives that address these social determinants of health is essential for a comprehensive assessment.

Furthermore, the availability of prostate cancer screening programs and educational resources within the community should be considered. Public health initiatives, community outreach programs, and partnerships with local organizations can play a crucial role in raising awareness about prostate cancer, promoting early detection, and connecting individuals with the resources they need.

The absence of a dedicated prostate cancer center within Chadbourn is not necessarily a negative indicator. The availability of high-quality primary care, coupled with access to specialist care in nearby areas, can still provide excellent care. However, the presence of a specialized prostate cancer center would undoubtedly enhance the local healthcare infrastructure.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in Chadbourn, NC (ZIP Code 28431), for prostate cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. It involves assessing physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the quality of care, and the influence of socio-economic factors. While a direct "Prostate Cancer Score" is not feasible, this analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

To visualize and analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and related factors in Chadbourn and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. This tool can help you visualize physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.