28624, Ferguson, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28624, Ferguson, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.67 percent of the residents in 28624 has some form of health insurance. 34.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.45 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 28624 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 247 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28624. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 28624, Ferguson, North Carolina.

Prostate Cancer Score: Ferguson, NC (ZIP Code 28624)

Analyzing prostate cancer care within Ferguson, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28624) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), crucial for initial screenings and referrals, alongside the broader healthcare landscape, including access to specialists, adoption of telehealth, and supportive mental health resources. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a Prostate Cancer Score, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care for men in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in preventative care. This begins with regular checkups and screenings, typically initiated by a PCP. In Ferguson, assessing primary care availability is paramount. Physician-to-patient ratios provide a crucial metric. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, coupled with publicly available information on physician practices within the zip code, allows for calculating this ratio. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, this needs to be contextualized.

The age distribution of the population in Ferguson is also important. An older demographic, which is more susceptible to prostate cancer, would place a greater strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure. Therefore, understanding the demographic makeup is vital to accurately interpret the physician-to-patient ratio and its impact on care accessibility.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for appointments? Do they offer extended hours or weekend availability? These factors directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely care. Practices that prioritize patient education and preventative screenings, including PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing, are particularly valuable.

Once a potential concern is identified, the patient needs access to specialists. This includes urologists, who are the primary physicians for prostate cancer treatment. Examining the proximity of urology practices to Ferguson is essential. Travel time can significantly impact a patient's experience, particularly for those requiring frequent follow-up appointments or treatment. The availability of radiation oncologists and medical oncologists, crucial for advanced cancer treatment, is also a key factor.

Standout practices within Ferguson or nearby areas can be identified by analyzing patient reviews, physician ratings, and accreditations. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, and participate in quality improvement initiatives should be recognized. These practices often serve as models for others, elevating the overall standard of care in the region.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in modern healthcare. Telemedicine offers the potential to increase access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists, can significantly improve the Prostate Cancer Score. Practices that embrace telehealth can offer greater convenience and potentially reduce travel burdens for patients.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for patients dealing with a prostate cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be significant. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community is vital. The presence of support groups and educational programs specifically tailored to prostate cancer patients and their families also contributes to a higher score.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, can also significantly improve the patient experience. Patient navigators guide patients through the complex healthcare system, helping them understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and available resources. They can also assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, and addressing any barriers to accessing care.

The Prostate Cancer Score for Ferguson, NC (28624) is not just a number; it’s a reflection of the overall healthcare ecosystem. It requires a holistic assessment of primary care availability, access to specialists, adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health and support resources. A higher score indicates a more robust and accessible system, offering men in the area a better chance of early detection, effective treatment, and improved quality of life.

This analysis requires constant updating. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving. New practices open, telemedicine offerings expand, and support resources become available. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to maintain an accurate and relevant Prostate Cancer Score.

In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ferguson, NC (28624) is essential for assessing prostate cancer care. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the key factors that influence access, quality, and patient experience.
For a more detailed and visually driven analysis of healthcare access and prostate cancer care in Ferguson, NC, and surrounding areas, including the location of physician practices, specialist availability, and the distribution of mental health resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape.