27371, Troy, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27371, Troy, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.23 percent of the residents in 27371 has some form of health insurance. 40.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.37 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 27371 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,236 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27371. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,444 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 160 health care providers accessible to residents in 27371, Troy, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Troy, NC (ZIP Code 27371)

Analyzing the prostate cancer care landscape in Troy, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27371) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and supportive resources, culminating in a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment for men concerned about prostate health. While a precise "Prostate Cancer Score" is difficult to quantify without access to proprietary data, this analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation based on publicly available information and general healthcare trends.

The foundation of good prostate cancer care rests on robust primary care. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for screening, early detection, and patient education. In Troy, assessing PCP availability involves examining physician-to-patient ratios. Rural areas often face challenges in this regard. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the US Census Bureau, and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data, coupled with population demographics, allows for an estimation of the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio could indicate limited access, potentially leading to delayed screenings and diagnoses. The availability of PCPs is fundamental.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and breadth of services offered by primary care practices are vital. Do practices offer comprehensive preventative care, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and other specialists? Investigating the websites and online profiles of local practices, along with patient reviews (while often subjective), can provide clues about the scope of services. A practice that actively promotes preventative care and early detection would score higher.

Specialist access is another critical component. Prompt referrals to urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists are essential for diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. The proximity of these specialists to Troy is a key factor. The presence of a local urology practice would be highly advantageous. If not, the analysis must consider the travel time to specialists in nearby cities like Asheboro or Greensboro. Longer travel times can present barriers to care, particularly for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires examining the practices of local PCPs and specialists. Do they offer telehealth appointments? Do they utilize patient portals for communication and information sharing? Practices that embrace telemedicine are better positioned to serve patients, especially those in remote locations or with transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in prostate cancer care, but they are essential. A prostate cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a crucial aspect of comprehensive care. Investigating the presence of mental health services within Troy or in nearby communities is necessary. Are there support groups for men with prostate cancer? Are mental health services integrated into the primary care or specialist practices? The integration of mental health support into the overall care plan is a significant factor.

Standout practices can be identified by looking for specific indicators. A practice that actively promotes prostate cancer awareness through community outreach programs would score well. Practices that participate in clinical trials or research studies demonstrate a commitment to advancing prostate cancer care. Practices that receive positive patient reviews and have a reputation for providing compassionate and patient-centered care would also stand out. These practices often serve as models for other providers.

The analysis must also consider the overall healthcare ecosystem. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department or a cancer center would be a significant asset. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI and PET scans, is also important for accurate diagnosis and staging. The integration of these resources into the local healthcare network enhances the quality of care.

Primary care availability in Troy is a key factor. The overall healthcare landscape is a key factor. The availability of specialists, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all contribute to the quality of care. A thorough analysis requires a comprehensive assessment of all these factors. This is a complex process.

The data suggests that Troy, NC, faces some challenges in providing optimal prostate cancer care. The rural location likely impacts the physician-to-patient ratio. The analysis should provide a more detailed picture of the local healthcare landscape.

For a more in-depth visual analysis of the healthcare landscape in Troy, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, making it easier to identify areas with limited access to care and to understand the overall healthcare environment.