28017, Boiling Springs, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28017, Boiling Springs, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.01 percent of the residents in 28017 has some form of health insurance. 7.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.86 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 28017 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 141 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28017. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 862 health care providers accessible to residents in 28017, Boiling Springs, North Carolina.

The task is to analyze prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28017, focusing on primary care availability in Boiling Springs, North Carolina. This analysis will delve into various aspects, including physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for prostate cancer patients in this specific geographic area.

Boiling Springs, nestled within ZIP code 28017, presents a unique healthcare environment. The availability of primary care physicians is crucial, as they often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or requiring screening. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per patient, generally translates to better access to care and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. Unfortunately, obtaining precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios for a specific ZIP code can be challenging due to the dynamic nature of medical staffing and data privacy regulations. However, publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services can offer estimates and trends.

Standout practices in the area would likely be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive prostate cancer care. This includes not only early detection through screening (PSA tests, digital rectal exams) but also the coordination of care with specialists, such as urologists and oncologists. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education, stay abreast of the latest treatment options, and offer patient-centered care are highly valued. These practices often prioritize patient education, providing clear explanations of diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects. They also facilitate communication and collaboration among different healthcare providers involved in the patient's care.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Boiling Springs. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including improved access to care, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling. It can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to provide convenient and timely care. The availability of telemedicine can also be a significant factor in attracting and retaining patients, particularly those who value convenience and flexibility.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and its subsequent treatment, can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. Practices that recognize this and offer access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are providing more holistic care. This can include individual counseling, support groups, and access to psychiatric services if needed. Integrating mental health support into the overall care plan can significantly improve a patient's quality of life during and after treatment.

Another key aspect of assessing the quality of care is the availability of specialized services. The presence of urologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists within a reasonable distance is crucial for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. The ability to quickly access these specialists for consultation, diagnosis, and treatment is essential for optimal outcomes. Furthermore, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, can significantly impact the accuracy of diagnosis and staging of the disease.

The integration of technology is also transforming prostate cancer care. Electronic health records (EHRs) facilitate the seamless sharing of patient information among different providers, improving coordination of care. Patient portals allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their physicians, and schedule appointments online. Practices that leverage these technologies are often better equipped to provide efficient and patient-centered care.

The analysis of prostate cancer care in Boiling Springs, NC (28017) must consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the presence of hospitals, outpatient clinics, and other healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas. The proximity of these facilities can significantly impact the accessibility of specialized services and emergency care. The availability of transportation options, particularly for patients who may have difficulty driving, is another important consideration.

The overall quality of prostate cancer care in 28017 is dependent on a combination of factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the use of technology all contribute to the patient experience and outcomes. While a definitive "score" is difficult to quantify without access to highly specific, real-time data, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key elements that contribute to quality care in this specific geographic area.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Boiling Springs (28017), including the locations of medical facilities, physician concentrations, and potential service gaps, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geospatial visualization of healthcare resources, helping you identify areas with high and low access to care.