28504, Kinston, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.10 percent of the residents in 28504 has some form of health insurance. 48.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.50 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 28504 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28504. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,529 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 669 health care providers accessible to residents in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Kinston, NC (ZIP Code 28504)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within Kinston, North Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 28504. It examines the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in early detection and management, and assesses the overall environment for men seeking prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to a comprehensive Prostate Cancer Score.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care begins with accessible primary care. In Kinston, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying screenings and diagnoses. Data on this ratio should be readily available from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board or the US Department of Health & Human Services. Any shortage of primary care physicians in the area necessitates a deeper investigation. Are there initiatives to attract and retain physicians? Are there programs to improve access to care for underserved populations? These factors directly impact the Prostate Cancer Score.

Identifying standout practices within 28504 is crucial. These practices may demonstrate excellence in various aspects of prostate cancer care. This could include early screening programs, advanced diagnostic techniques, or a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Researching the patient reviews and ratings of local practices is essential. Examining their websites for information on their approach to prostate cancer, the types of screening they offer (PSA tests, digital rectal exams), and their referral patterns is crucial. Practices that collaborate with urologists and oncologists, providing a seamless pathway for patients, will score higher.

Telemedicine is transforming healthcare, and its adoption in Kinston can significantly impact the Prostate Cancer Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and increasing access to specialists. This is particularly beneficial for men living in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services for prostate cancer-related care, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, is essential. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

The emotional toll of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the Prostate Cancer Score. Patients need access to counseling, support groups, and other mental health services to cope with the emotional challenges of the disease. Researching the availability of these resources within the community, including whether primary care practices have mental health professionals on staff or referral networks, is essential. A supportive environment that addresses the mental health needs of patients will significantly enhance the overall quality of care.

Primary care availability in Kinston is directly linked to the overall health of the community. A robust primary care system is vital for early detection and management of prostate cancer. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians in the area, their acceptance of new patients, and the average wait times for appointments provides valuable insight. Any barriers to accessing primary care, such as lack of insurance coverage or transportation challenges, must be considered. Addressing these issues can improve the Prostate Cancer Score.

The presence of specialists, such as urologists and oncologists, is another critical factor. Assessing the number of specialists in the area, their expertise, and their collaboration with primary care physicians is essential. Practices that offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, such as minimally invasive surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, will score higher. The availability of clinical trials and research opportunities also contributes to a higher score.

The overall Prostate Cancer Score for Kinston, NC (28504) is a composite measure. It reflects the interplay of all the factors discussed above. The score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, one that can change over time as the healthcare landscape evolves. Regular updates and analysis are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement. The score should be used as a tool to advocate for better access to care, improved screening programs, and enhanced support services for men facing prostate cancer.

The quality of prostate cancer care is not solely determined by medical expertise. The overall patient experience is also critical. This includes the ease of scheduling appointments, the clarity of communication from healthcare providers, and the availability of patient education materials. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and provide a supportive and informative environment will receive a higher score.

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in Kinston (28504) requires a comprehensive approach. It involves evaluating primary care availability, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. By understanding these factors, we can gain a clearer picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This analysis is intended to be a starting point, a foundation for further investigation and advocacy.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, primary care availability, and other relevant factors, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize this data, making it easier to understand the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas where improvements are needed.