28594, Emerald Isle, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28594, Emerald Isle, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.34 percent of the residents in 28594 has some form of health insurance. 37.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.04 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 28594 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 608 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28594. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,171 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,264 health care providers accessible to residents in 28594, Emerald Isle, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Emerald Isle, NC (ZIP Code 28594)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of specialized medical professionals but also the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis will examine the factors influencing a "Prostate Cancer Score" for the area, focusing on physician access, primary care support, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, all within the 28594 ZIP code.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer management is access to qualified medical professionals. This includes urologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Determining the exact number of these specialists practicing directly within Emerald Isle is crucial. However, due to the town's relatively small size, it's highly probable that residents rely on healthcare providers located in nearby cities like Morehead City or Jacksonville. Therefore, our analysis must extend beyond the immediate ZIP code to encompass the surrounding region.

Physician-to-patient ratios become a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer specialists per capita, could signal potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, diagnostic procedures, and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily available pool of expertise. Data from state and national medical boards, coupled with information from insurance providers, is essential to calculate these ratios accurately. This will paint a picture of how easily residents can access the care they need.

Identifying standout practices is another key element. This involves evaluating the quality of care offered by different healthcare providers. Factors to consider include the experience of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (such as MRI and PET scans), and the use of cutting-edge treatment modalities (like robotic surgery or targeted therapies). Patient reviews, hospital ratings, and physician certifications provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Researching which practices are affiliated with larger, well-reputed hospital systems is also vital.

Primary care availability forms a crucial foundation for prostate cancer screening and early detection. Regular check-ups with primary care physicians (PCPs) are essential for monitoring overall health and identifying potential warning signs. The number of PCPs practicing within the 28594 ZIP code and the surrounding areas directly impacts the accessibility of these crucial services. Furthermore, the availability of same-day appointments and extended hours of operation can significantly influence the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Assessing the extent to which practices in and around Emerald Isle utilize telemedicine platforms is a vital part of this analysis. This includes evaluating the types of services offered via telemedicine, the ease of use of the platforms, and the availability of technical support.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to the overall well-being of patients facing a cancer diagnosis. Prostate cancer can have a significant emotional impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, in the area is essential. This includes assessing the presence of support groups, counseling services, and mental health programs specifically tailored to cancer patients.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" should reflect a holistic assessment of all these factors. It's not simply about the number of specialists available, but also about the quality of care, the accessibility of services, and the availability of support resources. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare ecosystem that supports early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient care. Conversely, a low score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

In the specific context of Emerald Isle, the score will likely be influenced by its proximity to larger medical centers. The town's reliance on healthcare providers in neighboring cities underscores the importance of considering the regional healthcare landscape. This includes analyzing transportation infrastructure, the availability of public transportation, and the distance patients must travel to access care.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and insurance coverage can significantly impact access to healthcare. Understanding the specific needs of the Emerald Isle population is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet their unique requirements.

Data collection for this analysis involves several sources. Publicly available information from the North Carolina Medical Board, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and the U.S. Census Bureau is a good start. Insurance provider directories and patient reviews can offer valuable insights into the quality of care. Local hospitals and clinics should also be contacted for information about their services and resources.

The final "Prostate Cancer Score" should be presented in a clear and concise format, accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used. This will enable residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. This score should not be a static number, but rather a dynamic measure that is regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to empower residents of Emerald Isle with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By understanding the availability of resources, the quality of care, and the challenges facing the local healthcare system, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their health and well-being.
To visualize this information and uncover the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.