28516, Beaufort, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28516, Beaufort, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.61 percent of the residents in 28516 has some form of health insurance. 48.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.44 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 28516 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,768 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28516. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,476 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,375 health care providers accessible to residents in 28516, Beaufort, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28516 and Beaufort Primary Care

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care and primary care accessibility in ZIP Code 28516, which encompasses portions of Beaufort, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis seeks to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score," though a definitive numerical score is impossible without access to proprietary data. Instead, this analysis will assess key factors impacting prostate cancer care and primary care availability, providing a qualitative ranking and insights for residents.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians. In Beaufort, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial element. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can strain resources and potentially lead to delayed diagnoses or less comprehensive care. Researching the current ratio in the area is essential. This involves identifying the number of actively practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP Code and comparing it to the population served. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the US Census Bureau, and professional medical organizations can be used to gather this information.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians across the area is vital. Are physicians concentrated in certain areas, creating "healthcare deserts" for some residents? Are there enough physicians to adequately serve the elderly population, who are at higher risk for prostate cancer? Geographic information system (GIS) mapping, utilizing tools like CartoChrome, can visually represent physician locations, population density, and areas with limited access to care.

The quality of primary care is also a significant factor. Does the primary care infrastructure in Beaufort offer comprehensive services, including routine screenings, early detection programs, and patient education? The ability of primary care physicians to facilitate early prostate cancer detection, through regular PSA tests and digital rectal exams, is paramount. A strong primary care foundation is essential for early detection and referral to specialists.

Specialist availability is another critical component. The presence of urologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists within or near ZIP Code 28516 is crucial for providing timely and specialized care. The number of specialists, their experience, and their affiliation with reputable hospitals or cancer centers all contribute to the overall quality of prostate cancer care. Analyzing the proximity of specialists to the patient population is important.

Identifying standout practices in the area is a key element of this analysis. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize advanced diagnostic tools, and have a track record of positive patient outcomes deserve recognition. This information can be gathered through online reviews, patient testimonials, and data from professional organizations. Investigating the specific services offered by these practices, such as advanced imaging capabilities (MRI, PET scans), minimally invasive surgical techniques, and access to clinical trials, can further differentiate them.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, and its presence in Beaufort is a crucial factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Does the area have physicians who offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals? Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing access to specialists located outside the immediate area.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical aspect of comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact on patients and their families. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential for addressing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Assessing the availability of these resources within ZIP Code 28516, and the ease with which patients can access them, is essential.

The integration of technology in healthcare is rapidly evolving. Are local practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to improve communication and coordination of care? Do they offer online appointment scheduling and patient portals for accessing medical information? The adoption of technology can enhance efficiency, improve patient engagement, and facilitate better communication between patients and their healthcare providers.

Insurance coverage and affordability are also important considerations. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local physicians and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients struggling to afford care are essential for ensuring equitable access to healthcare. Researching the insurance landscape in the area, including the acceptance of Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans, is a vital step.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 28516, based on this analysis, would be a reflection of all these factors. A high score would indicate strong primary care availability, a sufficient number of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, access to mental health resources, and the use of technology to enhance patient care. A lower score would indicate areas needing improvement, such as a shortage of physicians, limited access to specialists, or a lack of telemedicine options.

This analysis, while qualitative, provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of prostate cancer care and primary care availability in Beaufort. Gathering the specific data and performing a more detailed analysis would provide a more accurate and useful assessment.

To visualize the geographic distribution of physicians, population density, and access to care, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can help you identify areas with limited access to care, visualize physician locations, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 28516 and the surrounding areas. Explore the power of CartoChrome to gain a deeper understanding of your local healthcare environment.