28615, Creston, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28615, Creston, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.19 percent of the residents in 28615 has some form of health insurance. 49.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.46 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 28615 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 250 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28615. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 546 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,764 health care providers accessible to residents in 28615, Creston, North Carolina.

The analysis of prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 28615, encompassing the Creston, North Carolina area, demands a multi-faceted approach. This region, characterized by its rural nature, presents unique challenges and opportunities when assessing healthcare accessibility and quality. We will examine the landscape of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial factors in a comprehensive prostate cancer care score.

Primary care availability forms the foundational layer of any healthcare system. In Creston, the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the early detection and management of prostate cancer. Early detection through regular screenings, often initiated by a PCP, is paramount for favorable outcomes. A scarcity of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, advanced disease stages, and potentially poorer survival rates. The analysis must consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, taking into account factors like physician age, practice size, and patient load.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A high ratio, reflecting a limited number of physicians serving a large population, can strain the system. This strain manifests in longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a diminished focus on preventative care, including prostate cancer screening. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates greater access to care, allowing for more personalized attention and proactive management. The analysis needs to determine the physician-to-patient ratio within 28615, comparing it to regional and national averages. This comparison will reveal the relative accessibility of primary care services and its implications for prostate cancer care.

Identifying standout practices is key to understanding the quality of care. These practices often demonstrate best practices in prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This includes adherence to established guidelines, utilization of advanced diagnostic tools, and a commitment to patient education and support. Assessing the practices within and around 28615 requires examining their patient outcomes, patient satisfaction scores, and participation in quality improvement initiatives. Practices that proactively offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams (DREs), and referrals to urologists for further evaluation should be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for expanding access to specialists, facilitating follow-up appointments, and providing remote monitoring. In the context of prostate cancer, telemedicine can connect patients with urologists, oncologists, and other specialists, reducing the need for lengthy travel and improving convenience. The analysis must evaluate the extent of telemedicine adoption among practices in 28615, assessing the types of services offered remotely, the technology used, and patient satisfaction with these services. Practices actively embracing telemedicine are likely to score higher in terms of accessibility and patient-centered care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients through their journey. The analysis needs to assess the availability of mental health services within Creston, including the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the ease of access. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care models, either through on-site counselors or referrals to external providers, should be commended.

The overall prostate cancer care score for doctors in ZIP Code 28615 will be a composite of these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare system with ample access to primary care, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A low score suggests potential deficiencies in one or more of these areas, requiring targeted interventions to improve access and quality of care. The specific weighting of each factor will depend on its relative importance in determining patient outcomes and overall well-being.

The rural nature of Creston presents both challenges and opportunities. The limited population density may result in a smaller pool of healthcare providers, potentially leading to higher physician-to-patient ratios. However, the close-knit community can also foster strong relationships between patients and providers, leading to increased trust and better communication. The analysis must consider these nuances, recognizing that the optimal approach to prostate cancer care may differ from urban settings.

Furthermore, the analysis needs to consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Income levels, insurance coverage, and transportation options can all affect a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Practices that offer financial assistance programs, provide transportation services, or accept a wide range of insurance plans should be recognized for their commitment to serving all members of the community.

The analysis will also need to consider the availability of specialized prostate cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy and surgery. While these treatments may not be available directly within 28615, the analysis should assess the ease of access to these services in nearby towns and cities. This includes evaluating the availability of transportation, the waiting times for appointments, and the quality of care provided by these specialized centers.

In conclusion, a thorough prostate cancer care score analysis for doctors in ZIP Code 28615 requires a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. By considering these factors, we can gain a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. This data-driven approach is crucial for ensuring that all residents of Creston have access to the best possible prostate cancer care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Creston and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice types, and access to specialized services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and informative way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.