28128, Norwood, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28128, Norwood, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.98 percent of the residents in 28128 has some form of health insurance. 35.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.21 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 28128 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,559 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28128. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,245 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,118 health care providers accessible to residents in 28128, Norwood, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Norwood, NC (ZIP Code 28128)**

Analyzing prostate cancer care within Norwood, North Carolina (ZIP code 28128) requires a multifaceted approach. We need to evaluate the availability and quality of primary care, as this serves as the crucial first point of contact for men experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative screenings. Furthermore, the proximity and accessibility of specialists, including urologists and oncologists, are paramount in ensuring timely and effective treatment. This analysis considers these factors, along with the integration of modern technologies and supportive care resources, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the prostate cancer care landscape in Norwood.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Norwood, a relatively small town, might face challenges in physician availability. A low physician-to-patient ratio in primary care could lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the early detection of prostate cancer. This delay can significantly impact treatment outcomes. Therefore, understanding the specific ratio in Norwood is crucial. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, or similar sources, would provide the most accurate picture. However, even without precise numbers, anecdotally, a smaller town may face limitations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is vital. Practices that emphasize preventative screenings, including regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests for men over 50 (or earlier for those with a family history), are essential. The practices’ commitment to patient education, explaining the risks and benefits of screening, is also a key indicator of quality. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and ensure that patient information is readily accessible to specialists if a referral becomes necessary.

Specialist availability is another crucial factor. The presence of urologists and oncologists within a reasonable driving distance is critical. If Norwood lacks these specialists, patients would need to travel to larger cities like Charlotte or Concord for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This travel can be a significant burden, both logistically and financially, potentially affecting patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of radiation therapy and surgical facilities within the region also impacts the overall care experience.

The integration of telemedicine is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and even participate in support groups. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care physicians and specialists in the Norwood area is a key indicator of the accessibility and convenience of care. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and can potentially improve patient outcomes.

Mental health support is often overlooked in cancer care, but it is a vital component of overall well-being. A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources, such as counselors, therapists, and support groups, within the community is crucial. Primary care physicians should be trained to screen for mental health issues and make appropriate referrals. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve the quality of life for patients.

Standout practices in the area would be those that excel in several areas. They would exhibit a high physician-to-patient ratio, ensuring timely access to care. They would actively promote preventative screenings, including PSA testing and digital rectal exams. They would have a well-established referral network with local urologists and oncologists. They would embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. They would also prioritize patient education, providing clear and concise information about prostate cancer, treatment options, and potential side effects. Furthermore, they would have strong partnerships with mental health professionals, ensuring that patients have access to the emotional support they need.

The specific practices in Norwood, and their individual scores, would need to be assessed based on the above criteria. Data from patient reviews, practice websites, and healthcare directories would be valuable resources. However, this information would need to be collated and analyzed to provide a true picture. The overall score would reflect the availability, accessibility, and quality of prostate cancer care in the area.

The effectiveness of a practice is also reflected in its patient outcomes. Data on cancer survival rates, patient satisfaction, and the rate of complications following treatment would provide valuable insights. However, this type of data is often difficult to obtain and may not be publicly available.

The Norwood community's overall health and wellness initiatives also play a role. Access to healthy food options, opportunities for exercise, and community support programs contribute to a patient's overall well-being. These factors can positively influence the effectiveness of prostate cancer treatment.

In conclusion, evaluating the prostate cancer care landscape in Norwood requires a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While a definitive score requires detailed data collection and analysis, this framework provides a roadmap for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

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