28587, Vandemere, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28587, Vandemere, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.24 percent of the residents in 28587 has some form of health insurance. 72.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.13 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 28587 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 46 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28587. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 86 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 63 health care providers accessible to residents in 28587, Vandemere, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: 28587 & Vandemere Primary Care

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 28587 (likely encompassing the town of Vandemere, North Carolina, and surrounding areas) requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider the availability of primary care physicians, the specific focus on prostate cancer screening and treatment, and the integration of modern healthcare practices like telemedicine and mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a 'Prostate Cancer Score' assessment, though it's important to acknowledge that without direct access to proprietary data, this will be a qualitative evaluation based on publicly available information and general healthcare trends.

The foundation of any good prostate cancer care system rests on accessible primary care. This is the gateway for initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing management. Assessing primary care availability in Vandemere involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board can provide insights into this ratio. However, the actual number of practicing physicians within the specific ZIP code is crucial, as doctors may be located nearby but not directly within Vandemere.

Beyond the raw numbers, we need to evaluate the distribution of primary care practices. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger, multi-specialty groups? Larger groups often have the advantage of offering a wider range of services, including on-site diagnostic capabilities, which can streamline the process for patients suspected of having prostate cancer. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants also impacts accessibility, as they can provide a significant portion of primary care services, freeing up physicians for more complex cases.

Standout practices, if any, would be those that demonstrate a proactive approach to prostate cancer screening. This includes actively encouraging men over a certain age (typically 50, or younger for those with family history) to undergo regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams. These practices would ideally have clear protocols for managing patients with elevated PSA levels, ensuring timely referrals to urologists for further evaluation, such as biopsies. Furthermore, practices that educate patients about prostate cancer risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options would be considered exemplary.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. In a rural area like Vandemere, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, especially if a urologist isn't readily available locally. Practices that offer telemedicine options, either through their own systems or through partnerships with larger healthcare networks, would receive a higher score. The ability to access specialists remotely can significantly improve the patient experience and reduce the need for extensive travel.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital in cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Practices that integrate mental health support, either through in-house counselors or through referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This could include offering support groups, individual therapy, or access to resources that address the emotional and psychological impact of the disease.

In evaluating the 'Prostate Cancer Score', we also need to consider the availability of local urologists. While primary care physicians are the gatekeepers, the presence of readily accessible urologists is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The number of urologists practicing within a reasonable driving distance, their specialization in prostate cancer, and their affiliations with hospitals offering advanced treatment options (like robotic surgery or radiation therapy) would all factor into the score. The proximity to a comprehensive cancer center, even if outside the immediate ZIP code, would be a significant advantage.

The quality of local hospitals is also important. The presence of a hospital with a dedicated urology department, experienced surgeons, and access to advanced imaging and treatment modalities (such as MRI, brachytherapy, and external beam radiation therapy) would positively impact the score. Hospitals that participate in clinical trials for prostate cancer treatments would further enhance the score, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies.

In essence, a high 'Prostate Cancer Score' for 28587 and Vandemere would reflect a healthcare system characterized by: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, proactive primary care practices that emphasize screening and early detection, widespread telemedicine adoption, integration of mental health support, readily available urologists, and access to a high-quality hospital with advanced treatment options. Conversely, a low score would indicate potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive prostate cancer care.

It's important to remember that this analysis is based on publicly available information and general healthcare trends. A comprehensive assessment would require access to more detailed data, including patient satisfaction surveys, outcomes data, and information on the specific protocols and resources available within each practice. However, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors that contribute to the quality of prostate cancer care in this specific geographic area.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Vandemere and surrounding areas, and to identify potential gaps in care, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, hospital access, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more informed assessment of healthcare accessibility. Consider using CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.