28434, Council, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28434, Council, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.74 percent of the residents in 28434 has some form of health insurance. 36.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.94 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 28434 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 63 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28434. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 149 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,208 health care providers accessible to residents in 28434, Council, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28434 and Primary Care Availability in Council

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28434, examining the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in early detection and management. We'll also consider the broader context of healthcare access in Council, a term we will use to represent the geographic area surrounding the specified ZIP code. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to men in this region, focusing on factors that directly impact their prostate health.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. Early detection, through regular screenings like PSA tests and digital rectal exams, is paramount. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly influences the likelihood of men receiving these crucial screenings. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening rates, and potentially, later-stage diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access, allowing for more proactive and preventative care. This initial assessment must consider the population density of the area, as a sparse population may require patients to travel further for care, impacting accessibility.

Within ZIP code 28434, the specific number of PCPs and the patient population they serve are critical data points. Publicly available resources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards, can provide this information. Analysis of this data will reveal the physician-to-patient ratio, a key indicator of access. Furthermore, the age distribution of the male population within the ZIP code is relevant. A higher proportion of older men, the demographic most at risk for prostate cancer, necessitates a greater focus on screening and preventative care. This demographic data will inform the weighting of the physician-to-patient ratio in the overall score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This includes the experience and expertise of the PCPs, their adherence to established prostate cancer screening guidelines, and their willingness to engage in open communication with patients. The presence of board-certified PCPs, those who have undergone rigorous training and demonstrated expertise in their field, is a positive indicator. Reviews and testimonials from patients, though often subjective, can offer insights into the patient experience and the level of care provided.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 28434 requires a deeper dive. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to prostate health, such as those actively promoting screening programs and providing patient education materials, should be recognized. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and streamline care coordination can also be considered favorably. The integration of specialists, such as urologists, within a practice or network enhances the continuity of care and facilitates timely referrals when necessary.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant advancement in healthcare access, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The ability to consult with a PCP or specialist remotely can eliminate geographical barriers and improve access to care for men in Council. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or initial consultations, should receive a higher score. The availability of telehealth services for mental health support, a critical component of cancer care, is also a factor.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they play a vital role in patient well-being. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the community or through referrals from PCPs, is crucial. Practices that actively address the mental health needs of their patients, either through in-house resources or partnerships with mental health professionals, should be highly regarded.

The overall Prostate Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 28434 and primary care availability in Council will be a composite of the factors discussed. The physician-to-patient ratio will be a significant component, weighted based on population density and the age distribution of the male population. The quality of care, including the experience of the PCPs, adherence to screening guidelines, and patient reviews, will also contribute significantly. Telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources will be additional scoring factors.

The final score will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of prostate cancer care in the region. It will highlight areas of strength and identify areas where improvements are needed. This analysis provides a starting point for men in Council to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It also offers valuable insights for healthcare providers and policymakers seeking to enhance prostate cancer care in the area.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28434 and Council, including the locations of medical practices, physician-to-patient ratios, and the availability of mental health resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a dynamic and intuitive way to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare.