28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.93 percent of the residents in 28663 has some form of health insurance. 46.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.13 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 28663 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 112 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28663. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 220 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 244 health care providers accessible to residents in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Piney Creek, NC (ZIP Code 28663)

Analyzing the availability and quality of prostate cancer care within Piney Creek, North Carolina (ZIP code 28663), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the interplay of physician accessibility, the presence of primary care resources, the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine, and the availability of integrated mental health support – all crucial elements in a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This analysis is not a definitive ranking, but rather an assessment of the landscape to inform healthcare decisions.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Piney Creek, being a rural community, likely faces challenges in this area. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning a limited number of doctors serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) would be essential to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 28663 ZIP code. This data would need to be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care in Piney Creek.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Evaluating practices involves considering factors such as the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic tools (like basic blood work capabilities), and the practice's commitment to preventive care. Are routine prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings offered? Do practices actively educate patients about risk factors and early detection? Reviewing online patient testimonials and ratings, while not always perfectly representative, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Identifying practices that prioritize patient education and proactive screening would be a significant positive indicator.

The presence of specialists, particularly urologists, within a reasonable travel distance is another critical factor. While primary care physicians often initiate the screening process, a confirmed diagnosis necessitates the expertise of a urologist. The distance patients must travel to access specialized care can significantly impact their treatment decisions and overall well-being. If urologists are located outside of Piney Creek, assessing the transportation options available to patients, including public transportation or community-based transportation services, is essential.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to bridge geographical barriers and improve healthcare access, especially in rural communities. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and urology specialists in the area is a key consideration. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, or medication management? Telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, saving patients time and travel costs. The availability of remote monitoring technologies, allowing physicians to track patient progress and intervene proactively, would further enhance the benefits of telemedicine.

The emotional toll of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be substantial. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an integral component of comprehensive care. Are mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, readily accessible within the community or through partnerships with local healthcare providers? Does the primary care practice or any local specialist offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? The presence of support groups for prostate cancer patients and their families is another crucial element. These groups offer a safe space for patients to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and learn from others facing similar challenges.

Assessing the quality of care also involves looking at the availability of resources for advanced treatments. Does the community have access to radiation therapy facilities or surgical options? Are there partnerships with larger hospitals or cancer centers in nearby cities or counties to provide comprehensive treatment options? The availability of clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities, would be a significant advantage.

While a definitive ranking is impossible without comprehensive data, the analysis above provides a framework for evaluating the prostate cancer care landscape in Piney Creek. The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all vital components of a patient-centered approach. The presence of these resources, and their accessibility, will significantly impact the quality of care available to men in the 28663 ZIP code.

This analysis is based on available information. A comprehensive assessment would require detailed data collection and analysis. Understanding the specific nuances of the healthcare landscape in Piney Creek is crucial for making informed decisions about your health.