28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.37 percent of the residents in 28456 has some form of health insurance. 47.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.46 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 28456 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 612 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28456. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 698 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 940 health care providers accessible to residents in 28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Riegelwood, NC (ZIP Code 28456)**

This analysis provides a nuanced assessment of prostate cancer care within Riegelwood, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28456), focusing on physician availability, the quality of primary care, and related support services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for men in this community, particularly regarding their access to prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The analysis will also consider the availability of mental health resources, recognizing the significant psychological impact a cancer diagnosis can have.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the cornerstone of effective healthcare delivery. In Riegelwood, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. A high ratio, conversely, suggests better access to care and a greater likelihood of early detection and intervention for conditions like prostate cancer. While precise physician-to-patient ratio data is difficult to obtain without direct access to internal healthcare databases, publicly available information from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can provide a general estimate. This estimate is vital to understanding the overall healthcare environment.

Standout primary care practices in and around Riegelwood are those that prioritize patient-centered care, employ advanced screening techniques, and actively promote preventative health measures. These practices often have robust systems for tracking patient health data, reminding patients of screenings, and coordinating care with specialists. They might also offer extended hours or weekend appointments to improve accessibility. The presence of these practices indicates a commitment to the health and well-being of the community, and they can significantly impact prostate cancer outcomes. Evaluating these practices involves looking at factors like their accreditation status, patient reviews, and the types of services they offer.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Riegelwood is a significant indicator of their commitment to providing accessible care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists like urologists and oncologists who may not be located within the immediate area. The availability of telemedicine services can be assessed by examining practice websites, contacting the practices directly, and reviewing patient testimonials.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a profound psychological impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential for supporting patients through their journey. Evaluating the availability of these resources involves identifying local mental health providers, assessing their expertise in cancer-related issues, and determining the accessibility of their services. This includes examining insurance coverage and the availability of financial assistance.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for Riegelwood, NC, is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. This score is not a single numerical value but rather a qualitative evaluation that considers the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure. A high score would indicate a community with good access to primary care physicians, standout practices that prioritize preventative care, widespread adoption of telemedicine, and readily available mental health resources. A low score would suggest the opposite, highlighting potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive prostate cancer care.

The analysis of prostate cancer care in Riegelwood also needs to consider the availability of specialist care, specifically urologists and oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to the area is crucial. A long travel time to see a specialist can delay diagnosis and treatment, which can negatively impact patient outcomes. The presence of specialists in nearby cities and towns, and the ease of access to them, is a vital part of the prostate cancer score. This includes assessing the availability of transportation options for patients who may not have personal vehicles.

Furthermore, it's important to consider the demographics of Riegelwood. Prostate cancer disproportionately affects African American men. Therefore, understanding the racial and ethnic composition of the community is crucial for assessing whether healthcare resources are equitably distributed. This involves examining the availability of culturally competent healthcare providers and ensuring that outreach programs are tailored to the specific needs of the community.

The quality of prostate cancer screening services is another important factor. This includes the availability of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams (DREs), and imaging techniques such as ultrasound and MRI. The frequency with which these screenings are offered, and the processes in place to follow up on abnormal results, is a vital part of the score. The quality of these services can be assessed by examining the practices’ adherence to national guidelines and their use of evidence-based screening protocols.

Finally, the analysis should consider the availability of patient education and support programs. These programs can provide patients with valuable information about prostate cancer, its treatment options, and resources for coping with the disease. This includes access to support groups, educational materials, and patient navigators who can help patients navigate the healthcare system. The presence of these programs indicates a commitment to empowering patients and improving their overall quality of life.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Riegelwood, NC, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and informative way to understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and to identify potential areas for improvement.