28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.06 percent of the residents in 28626 has some form of health insurance. 34.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.44 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 28626 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 471 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28626. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 605 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,845 health care providers accessible to residents in 28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina.

This analysis focuses on prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina, considering primary care availability and related factors. The goal is to provide an informed perspective, not a definitive ranking, due to the dynamic nature of healthcare information and the complexities of patient needs. The assessment will examine physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial components of comprehensive prostate cancer care.

Fleetwood, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural setting often translates to lower population density, potentially impacting access to specialized medical care. This analysis will consider these geographical factors.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In rural areas, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, including urologists who manage prostate cancer, can be limited. Data from the U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state-level licensing boards are essential sources for determining these ratios. A low physician-to-patient ratio could indicate longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment. The analysis will attempt to ascertain the specific PCP and urologist counts within the 28626 ZIP code, or within a reasonable radius, to gauge the accessibility of care.

Standout practices are identified by considering several factors. These include the quality of care, patient reviews, and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options. Practices with a strong reputation for patient-centered care, incorporating shared decision-making and providing comprehensive information, will be highly regarded. The use of advanced technologies, such as robotic-assisted surgery, advanced imaging techniques (MRI, PET scans), and genetic testing, are important considerations in assessing the capabilities of local practices. Furthermore, affiliations with larger healthcare systems or cancer centers can provide access to broader resources and expertise. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the local hospital's website can provide information on physician profiles, patient reviews, and practice specialties.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by enabling remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be locally available. The analysis will explore the extent to which practices in the Fleetwood area offer telemedicine services for prostate cancer care. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of patient portals for communication and information sharing. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and ensure continuity of care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health support services within the Fleetwood area. This includes assessing whether primary care practices and urology practices offer on-site counseling services or referrals to mental health professionals. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also an important consideration. Practices that prioritize mental health support demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Specific examples of practices and their offerings will be included, if publicly available information permits. This will involve a search for local practices within the 28626 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The information gathered will be cross-referenced with publicly available databases, such as the North Carolina Medical Board's website, to verify physician credentials and specialties. The analysis will also consider the presence of any local hospitals or clinics and their services related to prostate cancer care. The assessment will use a combination of online research, public health data, and patient testimonials (where available and ethically permissible) to provide a comprehensive overview.

The assessment will consider the availability of patient education materials and resources. Practices that provide patients with clear and concise information about prostate cancer, including diagnostic procedures, treatment options, and potential side effects, are highly valued. This includes access to educational brochures, websites, and support groups. The availability of resources in multiple languages, if applicable, is also a consideration.

The evaluation will take into account the cost of care and the availability of financial assistance programs. Prostate cancer treatment can be expensive, and the analysis will consider whether local practices offer information about insurance coverage, payment plans, and financial assistance programs. The ability to navigate the complexities of healthcare costs and insurance coverage is an important factor in ensuring that patients can access the care they need.

The analysis will also examine the involvement of local practices in clinical trials and research. Practices that participate in clinical trials can offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in prostate cancer care. The analysis will explore the presence of any research collaborations or affiliations with academic institutions.

The overall goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of prostate cancer care within the Fleetwood area. It will consider various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the cost of care. The information presented is intended to be informative and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers to discuss their individual needs and treatment options.

This analysis is designed to offer a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape in the Fleetwood area. However, healthcare is dynamic. The information provided is based on publicly available data and online research. It is always recommended to verify the information with the healthcare providers directly.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the Fleetwood area, including the locations of practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable tool for understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and planning for future healthcare needs. They are a useful tool for visualizing the information discussed in this analysis.