28909, Warne, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28909, Warne, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 74.63 percent of the residents in 28909 has some form of health insurance. 53.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.45 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 28909 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 72 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28909. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 154 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 727 health care providers accessible to residents in 28909, Warne, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28909 and Warne, NC**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28909, encompassing the Warne, North Carolina area. It focuses on key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment. The ultimate goal is to offer insights for residents seeking prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, while highlighting areas for potential improvement in healthcare accessibility and quality.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Warne, assessing primary care availability is critical, as PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for men experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative screenings for prostate cancer. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased wait times for appointments, and a general strain on the healthcare system. Conversely, a higher ratio, while seemingly positive, doesn't guarantee quality. The experience and expertise of the PCPs, their familiarity with prostate cancer screening guidelines, and their ability to effectively communicate with patients are all crucial factors.

The specific physician-to-patient ratio in 28909 requires detailed research. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau provides an initial framework. However, this data needs to be supplemented with information regarding physician specialization (e.g., are there any urologists in the immediate area?), practice size, and patient load. Further, the geographical challenges in a rural area like Warne need to be considered. Distance to practices, transportation options, and the availability of public transit can significantly impact access to care, even with a seemingly adequate physician-to-patient ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of local practices are paramount. Are there any standout practices in the area? This involves investigating the reputation of individual physicians and clinics. Online reviews, patient testimonials (where available and ethically obtained), and information on physician credentials and experience are all valuable sources. The presence of board-certified urologists is particularly important, as they specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. Also, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI machines and advanced biopsy techniques, significantly impacts the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in assessing the "Prostate Cancer Score." In rural areas, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improving access to specialists and follow-up care. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor patients, and provide educational resources can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on the healthcare system. The extent of telemedicine integration in 28909 requires evaluating whether local practices offer virtual appointments, whether they utilize remote monitoring technologies, and if they provide online patient portals for accessing medical information and communicating with providers.

The mental health of patients is also a critical aspect of overall care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore a vital component of a well-rounded healthcare system. Investigating the presence of mental health professionals in the area, the availability of mental health services within local practices, and the existence of support groups specifically for men with prostate cancer are all essential elements in the "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment.

A comprehensive assessment also includes an evaluation of the overall healthcare infrastructure. The presence of local hospitals with oncology departments, the availability of radiation therapy services, and the proximity to larger medical centers with advanced cancer treatment options are all important factors. Also, it is important to consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and access the resources they need.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 28909 should reflect the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, experienced physicians, advanced diagnostic and treatment options, robust telemedicine integration, readily available mental health resources, and a supportive healthcare infrastructure. Conversely, a low score would indicate areas for improvement, such as a shortage of physicians, limited access to specialists, lack of telemedicine adoption, and insufficient mental health support.

To provide a more precise score, a detailed analysis of each factor is necessary. This involves collecting data from various sources, including public health agencies, medical boards, healthcare providers, and patient advocacy groups. The data should be analyzed using a weighted scoring system, with each factor assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The final score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, with recommendations for improvement.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 28909 is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing high-quality healthcare. It is a tool that can be used to identify areas for improvement, advocate for increased resources, and ultimately, improve the lives of men affected by prostate cancer. It is a living document that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

For a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28909 and Warne, including the location of healthcare providers, access to resources, and geographical challenges, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.