28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 56.08 percent of the residents in 28543 has some form of health insurance. 8.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.72 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 28543 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,629 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28543. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 32 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,968 health care providers accessible to residents in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on prostate cancer care and primary care availability in Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina, specifically within the 28543 ZIP code. This area, nestled near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, presents a unique demographic and healthcare landscape, necessitating a nuanced evaluation. We will assess the quality of care based on available data, focusing on factors crucial to prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being.

Prostate cancer screening and treatment are significant health concerns for men, particularly those over 50. Early detection is paramount for successful outcomes. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the first critical element. PCPs serve as the gateway to healthcare, initiating screenings, providing referrals to specialists (urologists), and coordinating care. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data regarding the 28543 ZIP code reveals a moderately strained PCP-to-patient ratio. This suggests that while access is not critically limited, patients may experience some delays in securing appointments, especially for non-urgent matters.

The quality of primary care extends beyond simple availability. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening, including PSA testing and digital rectal exams, is essential. Practices that proactively offer these screenings and educate patients about the risks and benefits are considered superior. Similarly, the presence of advanced diagnostic tools within the community, such as access to MRI and other imaging modalities, contributes significantly to the quality of care. We see a mixed picture in Tarawa Terrace. While some practices are known for their commitment to preventive care and early detection, others may lag in offering the full range of screening options.

Specialist availability is equally crucial. Urologists, the specialists who diagnose and treat prostate cancer, are vital. The proximity of urologists and their accessibility within the community are important factors. The number of urologists per capita within the 28543 ZIP code, and the surrounding areas, reveals a moderate level of access. Patients are not entirely underserved, but the geographic distribution of specialists might necessitate travel for some residents. The availability of surgical options, including robotic-assisted prostatectomy, and radiation therapy facilities are also significant considerations.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has gained prominence, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate follow-up appointments. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices and urology specialists in Tarawa Terrace is moderate. Some practices have embraced telehealth for routine follow-ups and consultations, while others are still in the early stages of implementation. This disparity highlights an area for potential improvement.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for patients navigating a cancer diagnosis. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community is a vital component of comprehensive care. The 28543 ZIP code and surrounding areas have a moderate level of mental health resources. However, access to specialized support groups for men with prostate cancer is limited. This underscores the need for increased focus on mental health integration within the overall care pathway.

Standout practices are those that excel in multiple areas. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive screening, and a multidisciplinary approach to care. They may have dedicated care coordinators to help patients navigate the healthcare system, ensuring seamless communication between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers. Identifying these standout practices requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, practice websites, and professional affiliations. The data available suggests that some practices in Tarawa Terrace are making significant strides in providing high-quality prostate cancer care.

The overall 'Prostate Cancer Score' for the 28543 ZIP code is moderate. While there are strengths in terms of specialist availability and some practices demonstrating excellence, there are also areas for improvement. These include enhancing primary care access, increasing telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources. The physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs requires monitoring to ensure adequate access. The development of specialized support groups for prostate cancer patients would be a valuable addition to the community.

The healthcare landscape is dynamic. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents of Tarawa Terrace have access to the best possible care. The data suggest that patients should actively research their options, inquire about screening practices, and seek out practices that prioritize patient education and comprehensive care.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources in Tarawa Terrace and surrounding areas, and to gain a more granular understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for analyzing healthcare data and identifying areas of need and opportunity.