28152, Shelby, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28152, Shelby, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.20 percent of the residents in 28152 has some form of health insurance. 41.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.00 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 28152 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,481 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28152. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,338 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,110 health care providers accessible to residents in 28152, Shelby, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Shelby, NC (ZIP Code 28152)

This analysis provides a nuanced assessment of prostate cancer care accessibility and quality within Shelby, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28152). It focuses on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical factors influencing a patient's journey from screening to treatment and recovery. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about prostate health.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Shelby is crucial. This involves examining the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and surrounding areas, alongside patient population data. A favorable physician-to-patient ratio indicates better access to routine checkups, screenings, and initial consultations. Conversely, a shortage can lead to delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer outcomes. Data from reliable sources, such as the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, are essential for calculating these ratios accurately. The accessibility of primary care also considers factors like insurance acceptance, appointment wait times, and the availability of evening or weekend hours, all of which impact a patient's ability to receive timely care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Shelby involves evaluating their commitment to preventive care, including prostate cancer screening. This includes assessing their utilization of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams (DREs), and their adherence to established screening guidelines. Practices that proactively educate patients about prostate health, risk factors, and screening options are particularly valuable. Reviews from patients, both online and through local community feedback, can provide insights into the patient experience, including communication effectiveness, empathy, and the overall quality of care. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key indicator, as it facilitates seamless information sharing and coordination of care, crucial for managing complex conditions like prostate cancer.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Shelby directly impacts access to specialized care, particularly urologists, who are central to prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The availability of urologists within the ZIP code and surrounding areas is a critical factor. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for consultations, diagnostic procedures (such as biopsies), and treatment initiation. Furthermore, the expertise and experience of the urologists are essential. Assessing their training, board certifications, and the types of treatments they offer (e.g., surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy) provides valuable insights. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff, further enhances the quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Shelby. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers is important. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and the use of telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from medical facilities or who have mobility limitations. It can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate more frequent communication with healthcare providers. The ease of use of these platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration with existing patient portals are all essential considerations.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within Shelby is essential. This includes evaluating their expertise in oncology-related issues, their ability to provide individual and group therapy, and their integration with the medical care team. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families. The availability of resources for managing side effects of treatment, such as erectile dysfunction and incontinence, is also important.

Shelby's healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular updates to this analysis are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, practice innovations, and the integration of new technologies. This includes tracking changes in physician staffing, the adoption of new treatment modalities, and the expansion of telemedicine services. Patient feedback and community input should also be incorporated to provide a comprehensive and accurate assessment.

In conclusion, the Prostate Cancer Score for Shelby, NC (ZIP Code 28152) reflects a complex interplay of factors. Access to primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. A thorough understanding of these factors empowers patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and seek the best possible outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Shelby and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a user-friendly platform for visualizing healthcare data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health.