28669, Roaring River, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28669, Roaring River, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.65 percent of the residents in 28669 has some form of health insurance. 35.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.49 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 28669 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 496 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28669. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 459 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,072 health care providers accessible to residents in 28669, Roaring River, North Carolina.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment access within a specific geographic area are complex, involving numerous factors beyond just the presence of medical professionals. Analyzing the situation in Roaring River, North Carolina (ZIP code 28669), necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care, the potential for prostate cancer screening and treatment, and the overall healthcare landscape, including the role of telemedicine and mental health support.

The foundation of prostate cancer care often begins with primary care physicians (PCPs). They are the gatekeepers, responsible for initial screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing management. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Roaring River is crucial. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges. If the number of PCPs is limited relative to the population, patients might experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings or follow-up care. This is particularly important for a disease like prostate cancer, where early detection is paramount.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are vital. Are the existing PCPs accepting new patients? Do they offer same-day or urgent care appointments? Do they have experience or a particular interest in men's health? These factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to access timely and appropriate care. The presence of established primary care practices with a history of proactive screening and patient education would be a significant advantage.

The next layer of analysis involves the availability of specialists, particularly urologists. A urologist is the physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary tract and male reproductive system, including prostate cancer. The distance a patient must travel to see a urologist is a critical factor. A long commute can be a barrier to care, especially for older adults or those with mobility limitations. The presence of a urology practice within a reasonable distance from Roaring River is essential for comprehensive prostate cancer care.

Within the urology practices, several aspects warrant examination. What are the diagnostic capabilities? Do they offer advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI, for accurate diagnosis and staging? What treatment options are available? Do they provide a range of treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy, or do they primarily focus on a limited set of options? The ability to offer a comprehensive suite of treatments allows for individualized care tailored to the patient's specific needs and the stage of their cancer.

The adoption of telemedicine is another important consideration. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly in rural areas like Roaring River. Telehealth consultations can be used for initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. This can reduce the need for travel and make it easier for patients to receive care. The degree to which local practices have embraced telemedicine platforms can be a significant indicator of their commitment to patient accessibility.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Are there mental health professionals in the area who specialize in oncology or men's health? Are there support groups available for prostate cancer patients and their families? The presence of these resources can significantly improve a patient's overall well-being and their ability to cope with the challenges of their diagnosis and treatment.

Examining specific practices within the 28669 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. Are there any standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to prostate cancer care? This might include practices that offer a comprehensive range of services, have a high volume of prostate cancer patients, or have a strong track record of positive patient outcomes. Identifying these practices can provide valuable insights into the quality of care available in the area.

Furthermore, the overall healthcare infrastructure of Roaring River needs assessment. Are there any hospitals or medical centers in the vicinity? Do these facilities have dedicated oncology departments or cancer centers? The presence of a well-equipped hospital with comprehensive cancer care capabilities is a significant advantage for patients in the area.

The healthcare landscape is dynamic. The availability of resources can change over time. The analysis should consider the potential for future growth and development. Are there any plans for new healthcare facilities or expansions of existing practices? Are there any initiatives aimed at improving access to care for residents of Roaring River?

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in Roaring River, North Carolina (ZIP code 28669), requires a comprehensive evaluation. It necessitates examining the availability of primary care, the presence of urologists and specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, and the potential for future growth all contribute to a complete picture. The goal is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify any gaps in care.

To visualize and better understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape in Roaring River and surrounding areas. This can be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.