28735, Gerton, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28735, Gerton, North Carolina is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28735 has some form of health insurance. 40.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.41 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 28735 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28735. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 91 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,055 health care providers accessible to residents in 28735, Gerton, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the prostate cancer care landscape for residents of Gerton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28735), focusing on primary care physician availability and related healthcare resources. This evaluation considers factors crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and overall patient well-being.

The initial assessment centers on primary care physician (PCP) availability. Gerton, a relatively small community, likely faces challenges common in rural areas regarding healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. National averages provide a benchmark, but the specific ratio within 28735 requires investigation. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care for prostate cancer. Researching the current ratio, comparing it to state and national figures, and analyzing trends over time is paramount.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is important. Are physicians clustered in a single location, or are they dispersed, offering greater accessibility for residents across Gerton? Factors like transportation infrastructure also play a role. Limited public transportation and long distances to medical facilities can exacerbate access issues for those with mobility challenges, a significant consideration for older adults, a demographic at higher risk for prostate cancer.

Standout practices within the area warrant individual examination. Are there any primary care clinics or practices that demonstrate a commitment to proactive prostate cancer screening? This includes offering routine digital rectal exams (DREs) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests, as recommended by medical guidelines. Practices that actively educate patients about prostate cancer risk factors, early detection methods, and treatment options deserve recognition. Furthermore, assessing the quality of care involves looking at patient satisfaction surveys, physician certifications, and any accreditations the practices may hold.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural settings. The ability to consult with a PCP remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and discussing test results. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual consultations, are better positioned to serve patients in 28735. This is particularly relevant for prostate cancer patients who may require frequent monitoring or have mobility limitations. Investigating the availability of telemedicine services, the ease of use of the platforms, and the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, secure messaging) is essential.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a vital component of comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, within the Gerton area is crucial. Primary care practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their standard of care demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. Assessing the proximity of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the integration of mental health care with primary care is necessary.

Coordination of care is another vital consideration. Does the primary care practice have established referral pathways to urologists and oncologists? Efficient communication between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers is essential for seamless patient care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and facilitate easy information sharing are better equipped to coordinate care effectively. Investigating the referral processes, communication protocols, and the use of EHRs within the practices is critical.

The availability of specialized prostate cancer treatment options, such as radiation therapy and surgery, within a reasonable distance of Gerton is another important factor. While primary care physicians are primarily responsible for screening and initial management, access to specialized care is crucial for patients who require treatment. Assessing the proximity of hospitals and cancer centers that offer these services, as well as the reputation and expertise of the specialists, is necessary.

The cost of care is a significant concern for many patients. Investigating the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the transparency of pricing within the primary care practices is essential. Affordability of care can significantly impact a patient's ability to access necessary screenings, treatments, and follow-up care.

The overall prostate cancer care score for doctors in 28735 would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care infrastructure, including readily available PCPs, practices committed to proactive screening and patient education, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, efficient care coordination, and access to specialized treatment options. A lower score would indicate areas for improvement, such as limited access to PCPs, a lack of screening programs, a need for telemedicine adoption, and limited mental health resources.

This comprehensive analysis, however, is only the beginning. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. To stay informed about the latest developments in prostate cancer care in the Gerton area, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps offer interactive visualizations of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data. They can help you to visualize the information and make informed decisions about your healthcare.