28527, Ernul, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28527, Ernul, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.84 percent of the residents in 28527 has some form of health insurance. 46.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.44 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 28527 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 180 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 8 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28527. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 382 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,909 health care providers accessible to residents in 28527, Ernul, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Ernul, NC (ZIP Code 28527)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Ernul, North Carolina (ZIP code 28527), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors influencing patient access to care, the quality of available services, and the overall support system for individuals navigating this diagnosis. We will delve into physician availability, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the crucial aspect of mental health resources, all within the context of Ernul's primary care infrastructure.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care begins with accessible primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Ernul directly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely screenings, referrals, and ongoing management. Assessing primary care availability necessitates examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial diagnostic procedures. Researching the specific ratio within Ernul is paramount. Data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) would provide critical insights. This data, however, needs to be contextualized. Even a seemingly adequate ratio can be misleading if physician distribution is uneven, with some areas underserved.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care plays a vital role. Practices that emphasize preventative care, including routine prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings and digital rectal exams (DREs), are essential. Furthermore, PCPs need to be well-versed in the latest guidelines for prostate cancer screening and management, including shared decision-making regarding treatment options. Identifying practices that prioritize patient education and provide comprehensive information about risk factors, symptoms, and treatment pathways is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of resources such as patient education materials, support groups, and access to specialists.

The presence of urologists, the specialists primarily responsible for diagnosing and treating prostate cancer, is another critical factor. While PCPs provide the initial screening and referral, urologists perform biopsies, diagnose the disease, and manage treatment plans. The proximity of urology practices to Ernul is a key consideration. Patients may face significant travel burdens if they must travel long distances for appointments, follow-up care, and treatment. Evaluating the number of urologists practicing within a reasonable radius, and their respective specializations (e.g., robotic surgery, brachytherapy), is essential.

Standout practices, those that demonstrate excellence in patient care, are a valuable asset. These practices often integrate innovative approaches, such as multidisciplinary teams comprising urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and nurses. They may also offer advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI fusion biopsies, which can improve the accuracy of diagnosis. Identifying practices that participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments, is also important. Patient reviews, accreditation by organizations like the American Urological Association, and the presence of dedicated patient navigators can further indicate a commitment to quality care.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas like Ernul. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and participate in educational sessions without traveling long distances. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by both primary care practices and urology practices in and around Ernul is vital. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth platforms into the overall care process.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be significant. Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of comprehensive care. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in Ernul, including the presence of therapists specializing in oncology, is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, that provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences and receive emotional support.

The availability of ancillary services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nutritional counseling, also contributes to the overall quality of care. These services can help patients manage side effects of treatment, such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and improve their overall quality of life. Evaluating the availability of these services within Ernul or nearby is a necessary part of the analysis.

In conclusion, a comprehensive prostate cancer score for Ernul (ZIP code 28527) must consider the interplay of physician availability, primary care quality, urology practice proximity, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The data required for a complete assessment would involve detailed research into physician-to-patient ratios, practice profiles, telemedicine capabilities, and the availability of mental health and ancillary services.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ernul and surrounding areas, and to identify potential gaps in care, we encourage you to explore the power of mapping. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to overlay physician locations, practice information, and other relevant data points. This visual approach can help you identify areas with limited access to care, understand the distribution of resources, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. **Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps today.**