28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.71 percent of the residents in 28468 has some form of health insurance. 55.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.46 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 28468 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 418 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28468. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,138 health care providers accessible to residents in 28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Sunset Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28468)

Analyzing the availability and quality of prostate cancer care within Sunset Beach, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28468) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment. This score, though not a numerical value, will represent a qualitative understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape for men facing prostate cancer concerns.

The cornerstone of accessible healthcare is a robust primary care network. In Sunset Beach, assessing primary care availability is crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per primary care physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility and a potentially smoother pathway to care. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, a preliminary assessment, based on publicly available information and local anecdotal evidence, suggests that Sunset Beach might face some challenges in this area. The area's population, particularly its significant retiree demographic, likely places a strain on the available primary care resources.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer comprehensive preventative screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests? Do they proactively educate patients about prostate cancer risk factors and early detection strategies? The answers to these questions are essential to evaluating the effectiveness of the primary care network in addressing prostate cancer concerns. The presence of board-certified family medicine physicians and internal medicine specialists is a positive indicator. Furthermore, practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, emphasizing communication and shared decision-making, are likely to provide superior care.

Identifying standout practices involves scrutinizing several factors. Practices with a strong track record of patient satisfaction, as evidenced by online reviews and patient testimonials, deserve recognition. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and health education initiatives demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and raising awareness about prostate cancer. Additionally, practices that collaborate effectively with specialists, such as urologists and oncologists, ensure a seamless transition for patients requiring advanced treatment. This collaborative approach is crucial for providing comprehensive and coordinated care.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element of modern healthcare delivery, especially in a geographically dispersed area like Sunset Beach. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, including increased accessibility, reduced travel time, and the potential for earlier intervention. The availability of virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists, particularly urologists, can significantly improve the patient experience. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to serve their patients effectively. The ability to remotely review test results, discuss treatment options, and provide follow-up care can be particularly beneficial for men managing prostate cancer.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or maintain strong referral networks with mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to addressing the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community. Screening for depression and anxiety, coupled with timely interventions, is essential for promoting overall well-being.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Sunset Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28468), based on this analysis, is moderate. While the area likely benefits from dedicated healthcare professionals, potential challenges exist regarding primary care availability, particularly given the demographic profile. The presence of standout practices, coupled with telemedicine adoption, offers a degree of optimism. However, the overall score is tempered by the need for improved access to mental health resources and a continued focus on proactive preventative care. Further investigation and data collection are required to arrive at a more definitive assessment.

To enhance the understanding of the local healthcare landscape, including the location of primary care practices, specialist clinics, and hospitals, consider exploring the power of visualization. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to analyze geographic data. By visualizing the distribution of healthcare resources, you can gain valuable insights into accessibility and identify potential gaps in care. CartoChrome maps can also be used to overlay demographic data, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of the needs of the community.

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Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize the healthcare landscape in Sunset Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28468). Gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility and make informed decisions about your health.