28501, Kinston, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.67 percent of the residents in 28501 has some form of health insurance. 59.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.47 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 28501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,809 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28501. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,524 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 661 health care providers accessible to residents in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Kinston, NC (ZIP Code 28501)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Kinston, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28501) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialists, the integration of technology, and the support systems available to patients. This analysis will provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" by evaluating these key areas.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests upon accessible primary care. In Kinston, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians is a crucial factor. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying early detection and intervention. This directly impacts the prognosis for patients. Researching the current ratio and comparing it to state and national averages is essential. This data point will heavily influence the score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are the primary care physicians in Kinston proactive in screening for prostate cancer? Do they routinely perform digital rectal exams (DREs) and order prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests for men over 50, or those with a family history of the disease? The presence of established protocols and a commitment to early detection significantly improve the score.

Specialist availability is another critical component. The presence of urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists within or near Kinston is vital. The proximity of these specialists influences the speed and ease with which patients can access diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The score will reflect the number of specialists, their board certifications, and their experience in treating prostate cancer. The existence of a comprehensive cancer center would significantly elevate the score.

Standout practices within the ZIP code deserve specific recognition. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize cutting-edge technology, and offer comprehensive support services should be highlighted. This includes practices that participate in clinical trials, offer advanced imaging techniques like MRI-guided biopsies, and provide access to support groups and educational resources. These practices will be awarded higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. The ability to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of therapy remotely can significantly improve access to care for patients in Kinston. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring, will receive a higher score. This is especially important for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is a crucial factor. Practices that offer or refer patients to these resources will receive a higher score. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan significantly improves the patient experience and outcomes.

Primary care availability in Kinston is inextricably linked to the overall score. The presence of a robust primary care network, with sufficient physicians to meet the needs of the population, is essential. The score will consider the accessibility of primary care, including wait times, appointment availability, and the geographic distribution of practices within the ZIP code. A well-distributed network ensures that patients can easily access the care they need.

The assessment of primary care also includes an evaluation of the resources available to those practices. Do they have access to the latest diagnostic tools? Are they able to refer patients to specialists quickly and efficiently? The score will reflect the ability of primary care physicians to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" will be a holistic assessment, taking into account all of the factors discussed above. It will reflect the overall quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 28501. The score will not be a single number, but rather a nuanced evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The score will be a valuable tool for patients seeking care, as well as for healthcare providers looking to improve their services. It will provide a clear picture of the current state of prostate cancer care in Kinston, highlighting areas of excellence and identifying areas where improvements are needed. This analysis will inform future healthcare initiatives and help to ensure that all men in Kinston have access to the best possible care.

The score will also consider the presence of support groups and patient advocacy organizations. These resources provide invaluable support to patients and their families, helping them to navigate the challenges of a prostate cancer diagnosis. The score will reflect the availability and accessibility of these resources.

The final score will be a dynamic assessment, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves. Regular updates will be necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the availability of support services. This ensures that the score remains a relevant and accurate reflection of the quality of prostate cancer care in Kinston.

The analysis will delve into the specifics of each practice, examining their approach to patient care, their use of technology, and their commitment to providing comprehensive support services. This detailed examination will provide a valuable resource for patients seeking the best possible care.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of the population served by the healthcare providers in Kinston. This will help to ensure that the score reflects the needs of all patients, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

The goal is to provide a comprehensive and accurate assessment of prostate cancer care in Kinston, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health. This analysis will serve as a valuable resource for both patients and healthcare providers.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Kinston, and to visualize the distribution of physicians and healthcare resources, we encourage you to utilize the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations, allowing you to explore the data in a dynamic and informative way. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available to you.