28450, Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28450, Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.37 percent of the residents in 28450 has some form of health insurance. 42.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.48 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 28450 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 363 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28450. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 570 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,188 health care providers accessible to residents in 28450, Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Lake Waccamaw, NC (ZIP Code 28450)

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within the Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28450) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources. The goal is to provide a Prostate Cancer Score, offering insights into the accessibility and potential quality of care for individuals seeking prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and management within this specific geographic area. The analysis considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in the holistic approach to prostate cancer care.

Lake Waccamaw, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of PCPs is a critical first step in the prostate cancer care pathway. Early detection through regular screenings significantly improves treatment outcomes. The proximity and accessibility of a PCP who can initiate these screenings and provide timely referrals to specialists are paramount.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data, such as that from the US Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board, provides the raw data needed to calculate this ratio. However, interpreting this data requires careful consideration. The ratio alone doesn't fully capture the nuances of access. Factors like insurance acceptance, patient load of individual practices, and the availability of same-day appointments also contribute to the overall accessibility of care.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various aspects of their operations. This includes the experience and qualifications of the physicians, the range of services offered, the adoption of advanced diagnostic tools, and the patient satisfaction ratings. Online review platforms, such as Healthgrades and Vitals, provide valuable insights into patient experiences. These reviews often highlight aspects like physician communication, wait times, and the overall quality of care. Further, practices actively involved in community outreach and patient education regarding prostate cancer screening and prevention demonstrate a commitment to proactive healthcare.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. The availability of telemedicine consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and consultations with specialists can significantly improve the patient experience. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local practices, including the types of services offered remotely and the ease of access to these services, is crucial.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. The availability of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of comprehensive care. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within the community, including the integration of these services into the healthcare system, is a vital part of the Prostate Cancer Score analysis.

A comprehensive analysis of the Lake Waccamaw area reveals that the Prostate Cancer Score is likely impacted by the rural nature of the community. Physician-to-patient ratios might be less favorable compared to more urban areas, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments. The availability of specialists, such as urologists and oncologists, may be limited, requiring patients to travel to larger cities for specialized care. Telemedicine adoption, while offering a solution to some of these challenges, may also be limited by technological infrastructure and patient access to technology.

The standout practices in the area are those that actively address these challenges. These practices may prioritize patient education, offer extended hours, and actively participate in community outreach programs. They may also have a strong focus on patient communication and provide a supportive environment for patients navigating the complexities of prostate cancer care.

The integration of mental health resources is another key factor in determining the quality of care. Practices that offer on-site counseling or have established referral networks for mental health services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. These practices recognize the importance of addressing the emotional needs of patients alongside their physical health.

The Prostate Cancer Score for Lake Waccamaw is therefore a composite score, reflecting the interplay of these factors. It is not a single number but a nuanced assessment of the healthcare landscape. The score is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

To obtain a more granular and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lake Waccamaw, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome allows you to visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, assess access to care based on location, and identify areas with the greatest need for resources. By using CartoChrome maps, you can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in prostate cancer care within this specific community.