27313, Pleasant Garden, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27313, Pleasant Garden, North Carolina is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.21 percent of the residents in 27313 has some form of health insurance. 29.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.91 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 27313 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,281 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27313. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,041 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,819 health care providers accessible to residents in 27313, Pleasant Garden, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Pleasant Garden, NC (ZIP Code 27313)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Pleasant Garden, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27313) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized urology services, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. These factors collectively contribute to a "Prostate Cancer Score," reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals facing this diagnosis.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in robust primary care. In Pleasant Garden, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. Assessing this involves evaluating the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized attention. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially improved patient outcomes. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and publicly available healthcare directories will be crucial in determining the physician-to-patient ratio specific to Pleasant Garden.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Standout practices within the area will likely demonstrate several key characteristics. These include a commitment to preventative care, including routine prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings and digital rectal exams. Practices that prioritize patient education and provide clear, concise information about prostate cancer risks, symptoms, and treatment options are highly valued. Furthermore, practices employing a patient-centered approach, fostering open communication and actively involving patients in their healthcare decisions, are likely to yield better outcomes. Identifying these standout practices requires examining patient reviews, assessing the practice's accreditations and certifications, and potentially conducting interviews with local residents.

The presence of specialized urology services is another crucial component of the Prostate Cancer Score. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact, urologists are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. The availability of urologists within or near ZIP Code 27313 is essential. This includes assessing the number of practicing urologists, their areas of specialization (e.g., robotic surgery, radiation oncology), and their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers. Proximity to comprehensive cancer centers, offering advanced treatment modalities like brachytherapy and proton therapy, significantly enhances the quality of care available to patients.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in modern healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and urology specialists in Pleasant Garden is a significant factor in the Prostate Cancer Score. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. It enables virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and access to specialists who may not be physically located in the area. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved healthcare access.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis cannot be overstated. The integration of mental health resources into the care pathway is a crucial element of a holistic approach. This involves assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. Practices that proactively screen patients for anxiety and depression, and offer or refer patients to mental health services, demonstrate a commitment to the overall well-being of their patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians, urologists, and mental health professionals is essential for providing comprehensive care.

Evaluating the Prostate Cancer Score requires gathering data from multiple sources. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and healthcare directories provide valuable insights. Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals offer valuable perspectives on patient experiences. Local hospitals and cancer centers can provide information about the services they offer and the specialists they employ.

The final Prostate Cancer Score is a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in Pleasant Garden. A high score indicates a robust system with readily available primary care, access to specialized urology services, telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, enhancing access to specialized care, or expanding the availability of mental health services.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide a clear and comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Pleasant Garden, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their prostate cancer care. This includes identifying the strengths of the local healthcare system and highlighting areas where improvements are needed. This will allow patients to make informed decisions and seek the best possible care.

To further visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in Pleasant Garden, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of physicians, map the locations of healthcare facilities, and analyze the accessibility of care. CartoChrome maps can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and identify opportunities for improvement. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps today.