28538, Hookerton, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28538, Hookerton, North Carolina is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.73 percent of the residents in 28538 has some form of health insurance. 37.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.95 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 28538 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 551 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28538. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 336 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,034 health care providers accessible to residents in 28538, Hookerton, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Hookerton, NC (ZIP Code 28538)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care in Hookerton, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach, considering not just the presence of physicians but also the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care, a crucial entry point for early detection and ongoing management, and then assess the resources available for prostate cancer specifically. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare environment.

The foundation of any robust prostate cancer care system rests on accessible primary care. In Hookerton (ZIP Code 28538), assessing primary care availability involves examining physician-to-patient ratios. While precise numbers fluctuate, a general understanding of the area's demographics and the number of practicing primary care physicians provides a starting point. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and initial consultations. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater ease of access to primary care services.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is important. Are practices clustered in one area, leaving other parts of Hookerton underserved? This spatial analysis reveals potential disparities in access. Additionally, the types of primary care providers (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine) and their acceptance of new patients are critical factors. Practices actively accepting new patients contribute to a more accessible healthcare environment.

Evaluating "standout practices" involves considering several factors. Practices that actively promote preventative screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams, demonstrate a proactive approach to prostate cancer detection. The availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as basic blood work and imaging referrals, streamlines the diagnostic process. Patient reviews and testimonials offer valuable insights into the quality of care, patient communication, and overall experience. Practices receiving positive feedback from patients and demonstrating a commitment to preventative care deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Hookerton. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments, and providing remote monitoring capabilities demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and leveraging technology to improve access. The availability of telemedicine services, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can be a significant advantage for patients.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive prostate cancer care system. Assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the local healthcare network is essential. Do primary care practices offer in-house mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers? Access to support groups and educational resources for patients and their families is also critical. A healthcare system that acknowledges and addresses the mental health needs of patients demonstrates a holistic approach to care.

Specific to prostate cancer care, the presence of urologists in or near Hookerton is paramount. The number of urologists, their specialization (e.g., robotic surgery, radiation oncology), and their affiliation with hospitals or cancer centers are crucial factors. The availability of advanced treatment options, such as minimally invasive surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, is essential for providing comprehensive care. Access to specialized cancer centers, even if located outside of the immediate ZIP code, is a significant benefit.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for Hookerton (ZIP Code 28538) is a composite measure, considering all the factors discussed. It's not simply a matter of counting doctors but rather assessing the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care. The score will reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of primary care practices, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized prostate cancer care providers.

The score will be higher if there is a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, accessible primary care practices actively promoting preventative screenings, a robust telemedicine infrastructure, readily available mental health resources, and access to specialized prostate cancer care providers, including urologists and cancer centers. The score will be lower if there are significant barriers to access, limited treatment options, and a lack of support services.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of prostate cancer care in Hookerton. It highlights the importance of accessible primary care, the need for specialized prostate cancer services, and the critical role of mental health support. The score serves as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, identifying areas for improvement and guiding efforts to enhance the quality of care.

This analysis is a starting point for a more in-depth investigation. For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Hookerton, including the locations of practices, physician specialties, and telemedicine availability, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations available through CartoChrome.