28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.10 percent of the residents in 28573 has some form of health insurance. 42.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.53 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 28573 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 388 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 23 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28573. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 323 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,302 health care providers accessible to residents in 28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina.

The analysis that follows provides an assessment of prostate cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP Code 28573, specifically focusing on Pollocksville, North Carolina. This evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview to inform residents and healthcare stakeholders.

Pollocksville, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The success of prostate cancer screening and treatment hinges on the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) who often serve as the first point of contact. The PCP's role is crucial for early detection, referral to specialists, and ongoing management of the disease.

One of the critical metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. In a rural area like Pollocksville, the availability of PCPs can be significantly lower than in more urban centers. A low ratio can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau would be essential to ascertain the exact ratio within the 28573 ZIP Code. This data will help determine if the current physician supply meets the community's needs.

Standout practices within the area play a pivotal role in shaping the quality of care. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing evidence-based guidelines and employing skilled medical professionals. Identifying these practices requires a thorough review of patient reviews, practice websites, and healthcare ratings from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). The presence of board-certified physicians, specialized nurses, and support staff are key indicators of quality. Further, evaluating the practice's commitment to prostate cancer screening protocols, including PSA testing and digital rectal exams, is essential.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas to consult with specialists remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for prostate cancer patients who may need to see urologists or oncologists located outside of Pollocksville. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine requires an understanding of the practices that offer virtual consultations, the types of services offered remotely, and the availability of necessary technology for patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are common. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is critical. Assessing the availability of these resources involves identifying local mental health providers, the types of services they offer, and their capacity to serve the needs of cancer patients. Collaboration between primary care practices and mental health professionals is also a key indicator of a well-integrated healthcare system.

The quality of care also depends on the availability of specialized services. This includes access to urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to Pollocksville is crucial. Long travel times can create barriers to care and increase the burden on patients. The presence of local hospitals with advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities, such as MRI machines and radiation therapy equipment, is also a significant factor.

Furthermore, the healthcare system's ability to navigate insurance coverage and provide financial assistance is crucial. Prostate cancer treatment can be expensive, and patients may face financial hardship. Practices that have dedicated staff to assist with insurance claims, financial aid programs, and patient navigation services are better equipped to support their patients.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine is also important. Electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and communication between providers. Patient portals allow patients to access their medical information, communicate with their doctors, and schedule appointments. Practices that have adopted these technologies are often better positioned to provide efficient and effective care.

The overall prostate cancer score for Pollocksville, within the 28573 ZIP Code, will be determined by weighting these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources will be assessed. The availability of specialized services, the integration of technology, and the ability to navigate insurance coverage will also be considered. A comprehensive score will be a reflection of the community's overall healthcare infrastructure and its capacity to provide quality prostate cancer care.

This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Pollocksville. However, a truly comprehensive assessment requires detailed data collection and analysis. This includes gathering information from healthcare providers, patients, and community organizations.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pollocksville and the surrounding areas, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can display healthcare data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information.