28110, Monroe, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28110, Monroe, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.34 percent of the residents in 28110 has some form of health insurance. 31.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.64 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 28110 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14,905 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28110. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,015 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,790 health care providers accessible to residents in 28110, Monroe, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Monroe, NC (ZIP Code 28110)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Monroe, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28110) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering both the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the quality of specialized urological services. This analysis aims to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, factoring in key elements such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive patient care.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, including the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exams, is paramount. Therefore, the density of PCPs within the 28110 ZIP code directly impacts the accessibility of these vital initial steps. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater concentration of PCPs per capita, generally translates to easier access to preventative care and quicker referrals to specialists if a concern arises. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to estimate this ratio. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that these figures represent a snapshot in time and may not fully reflect the current situation due to physician turnover or changes in patient demographics.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally significant. Practices that emphasize preventative medicine, proactively offer screening reminders, and foster strong patient-physician relationships are more likely to facilitate early detection and successful management of prostate cancer. Furthermore, the ability of PCPs to effectively communicate with patients about their risk factors, explain the nuances of screening results, and address any anxieties or concerns is crucial for patient adherence to recommended care pathways.

Specialized urological care is the next critical component of the Prostate Cancer Score. The presence of board-certified urologists within the 28110 area, or in close proximity, is essential. The quality of these specialists is determined by factors such as their experience, the types of treatments they offer (e.g., minimally invasive surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy), and their affiliations with reputable hospitals or cancer centers. Researching the reputations of urology practices, examining patient reviews, and assessing their participation in clinical trials can help determine their standing within the community.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employ advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and actively participate in research or quality improvement initiatives. These practices often have a higher success rate, better patient outcomes, and a strong reputation within the medical community. They may also offer specialized services, such as genetic counseling for patients with a family history of prostate cancer or support groups for patients and their families.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like prostate cancer. Its adoption within the 28110 area can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and the delivery of educational materials. The extent to which local practices embrace telemedicine, including the availability of online appointment scheduling, virtual follow-up visits, and remote monitoring technologies, will contribute positively to the Prostate Cancer Score.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis cannot be overstated. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common among patients. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the 28110 area is a critical factor. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services specializing in oncology. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care and contribute to a higher Prostate Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the coordination of care between PCPs, urologists, oncologists (if radiation or chemotherapy is needed), and mental health professionals is essential for optimal patient outcomes. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate seamless information sharing, participate in multidisciplinary tumor boards, and actively communicate with other providers contribute to a more integrated and patient-centered approach.

The overall Prostate Cancer Score for the 28110 ZIP code is a composite of these various factors. While it's impossible to assign a precise numerical score without conducting extensive on-the-ground research, the following elements are critical: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio for both PCPs and urologists; the presence of reputable urology practices offering advanced treatments; the adoption of telemedicine to improve access to care; the availability of mental health resources; and the integration of care across different specialties.

This analysis underscores the complexity of evaluating healthcare access and quality. While this overview provides a framework for assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in Monroe, NC (28110), the information is dynamic.

For a more comprehensive and interactive visualization of the healthcare resources available in the 28110 area, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic, visual representation of these factors, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.