28454, Maple Hill, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28454, Maple Hill, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.01 percent of the residents in 28454 has some form of health insurance. 40.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.24 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 28454 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 601 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28454. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 341 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,071 health care providers accessible to residents in 28454, Maple Hill, North Carolina.

The analysis below assesses the quality of prostate cancer care and primary care availability in Maple Hill, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28454), focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, practice strengths, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, culminating in a call to action for accessing detailed mapping resources.

Maple Hill, a small community in Pender County, faces the typical healthcare challenges of a rural area. Access to specialized care, including urology and oncology for prostate cancer, can be limited compared to larger metropolitan centers. The success of healthcare delivery in this area hinges on the availability and efficiency of primary care, which acts as the crucial gateway to specialist referrals and ongoing patient management.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is a primary step. The ideal ratio varies, but a higher ratio (fewer patients per doctor) generally indicates better access and potentially more individualized care. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, the US Census Bureau, and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) provides a foundation for this analysis. However, these sources may not always reflect the exact number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code, necessitating cross-referencing with local healthcare directories and direct contact with practices. A preliminary investigation suggests that the physician-to-patient ratio in Maple Hill is likely less favorable than the national average, particularly for specialists. This underscores the importance of efficient referral systems and the utilization of technology to bridge the gap in care.

Standout practices in the area are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care, including early detection and management of prostate cancer. This involves offering or facilitating access to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams (DRE), and, when necessary, biopsies. Practices that actively engage in patient education about risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options are also highly valued. Furthermore, a practice’s ability to coordinate care across different specialties, such as urology, oncology, and primary care, is critical for optimal patient outcomes. Practices that are affiliated with larger healthcare systems often have an advantage in this regard, as they can streamline referrals and share patient information more efficiently.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in assessing healthcare quality. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for residents of rural areas like Maple Hill. Remote consultations with specialists, virtual follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment can reduce travel burdens and improve patient convenience. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, investing in the necessary technology and training staff, are better positioned to provide timely and accessible care. The effectiveness of telemedicine, however, also depends on the availability of reliable internet connectivity in the area, which can be a challenge in some rural locations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a vital component of comprehensive healthcare. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Practices that offer or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes providing information about support groups, counseling services, and other resources that can help patients cope with the emotional challenges associated with their condition. The integration of mental health services into primary care is particularly important, as it allows for early identification and intervention for patients who may be struggling.

The analysis of primary care availability in Maple Hill is closely linked to prostate cancer care. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or concerns related to prostate health. Their ability to perform initial screenings, provide education, and refer patients to specialists is crucial. The availability of primary care physicians, the length of wait times for appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans are all important factors to consider. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments can improve access to care for patients with busy schedules.

The overall assessment of prostate cancer care in Maple Hill, NC (28454) is complex. While the area may face challenges related to physician shortages and limited access to specialized care, the presence of dedicated primary care practices and the potential for telemedicine adoption offer opportunities for improvement. The ability of healthcare providers to collaborate, coordinate care, and address the mental health needs of their patients is paramount.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Maple Hill, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of specific services, and the demographics of the population, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping resources offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide detailed visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of healthcare providers, assess the availability of specific services, and understand the demographic characteristics of the population.