28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.63 percent of the residents in 28512 has some form of health insurance. 50.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.58 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 28512 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 345 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28512. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,409 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,686 health care providers accessible to residents in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Atlantic Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28512)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Atlantic Beach, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28512) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately constructing a "Prostate Cancer Score" for the area. This score will reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to men in this coastal community.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are crucial. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas that serve the Atlantic Beach population. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative care, which is a critical factor in prostate cancer screening and early intervention. The more accessible primary care is, the higher the initial score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This includes the adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and coordination of care, and a commitment to patient education. Practices that actively promote prostate cancer awareness, offer convenient screening options, and provide comprehensive patient education materials will receive higher marks. These practices contribute significantly to a proactive approach to prostate health.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. The ideal ratio varies, but a higher ratio (more patients per physician) can strain resources and potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and local health departments can provide insights into the specific PCP-to-patient ratio within the 28512 ZIP code and the surrounding county. Areas with favorable ratios, indicating greater access to care, will contribute positively to the overall score.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices that demonstrate excellence in prostate cancer care. This could include practices that have a dedicated urologist, a well-established referral network to specialists, and a patient-centered approach that prioritizes communication and shared decision-making. These practices will likely be recognized for their commitment to quality and patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in the Atlantic Beach area is a key consideration. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing travel time, offering virtual consultations, and facilitating remote monitoring. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine platforms for prostate cancer screening, follow-up appointments, and patient education will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to accessible and convenient care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a man's emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the local healthcare ecosystem is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will be recognized for their holistic approach to patient care. The presence of support groups specifically for men diagnosed with prostate cancer will also contribute positively to the score.

Building the "Prostate Cancer Score" requires a weighted approach. Each of the factors discussed—primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources—will be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The final score will be a composite, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of prostate cancer care within the 28512 ZIP code. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for men seeking prostate cancer care.

The assessment will require careful data collection and analysis. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and the U.S. Census Bureau will be utilized. Additionally, information gathered from local healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and online reviews will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.

The analysis will consider the presence of specialized urology practices in or near Atlantic Beach. The availability of urologists, who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer, is a critical factor. The number of urologists per capita, the types of treatments offered (including advanced techniques like robotic surgery), and the practice's commitment to patient education will all be evaluated. Practices with advanced treatment options and a strong focus on patient education will positively influence the score.

The analysis will also consider the availability of support services. These include patient navigators who can help patients navigate the healthcare system, financial assistance programs to help with the cost of care, and educational resources to help patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options. The presence of these support services will significantly enhance the overall score.

The final "Prostate Cancer Score" for Atlantic Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28512) will provide a valuable snapshot of the current state of prostate cancer care in the area. It will highlight areas of strength and identify potential areas for improvement. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately improve the health outcomes for men in the community.

The score will be dynamic and subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available. Regular reassessment is necessary to ensure that the score accurately reflects the current state of prostate cancer care. This ongoing evaluation will help to ensure that men in Atlantic Beach have access to the best possible care.

This comprehensive analysis, however, is just the beginning. To fully visualize the healthcare landscape and identify specific providers and resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, practice specialties, and access to care in the Atlantic Beach area and beyond.