28386, Shannon, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28386, Shannon, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.86 percent of the residents in 28386 has some form of health insurance. 45.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.47 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 28386 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,342 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28386. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 662 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,412 health care providers accessible to residents in 28386, Shannon, North Carolina.

This analysis assesses the landscape of prostate cancer care and primary care availability in the context of ZIP code 28386, focusing on the town of Shannon, North Carolina. It aims to provide an informed perspective on the accessibility and quality of healthcare services, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment journey.

The evaluation begins by acknowledging the challenges of rural healthcare. Shannon, like many small communities, may face limitations in specialist availability and access to advanced diagnostic tools. The analysis will consider these factors, along with the overall primary care infrastructure, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is a critical first step. This metric provides a baseline understanding of the potential workload for primary care physicians in the area. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. The analysis will seek to determine the current ratio for primary care physicians within the 28386 ZIP code, comparing it to regional and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care services. This is particularly relevant, as primary care physicians often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms that could indicate prostate cancer.

The availability of specialists, specifically urologists, is another key factor. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are paramount in prostate cancer management. The analysis will investigate the presence of urologists within the immediate area and the proximity to larger medical centers that offer specialized urological care. Travel distance and appointment availability will be considered, as these factors directly impact the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying standout practices requires a nuanced approach. This involves evaluating factors beyond just the number of physicians. The analysis will consider practice characteristics, such as the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening and treatment. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to providing high-quality care, will be given positive consideration. Patient reviews and testimonials, when available, will also be incorporated to gain insights into patient experiences.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which practices in the 28386 ZIP code have adopted telemedicine for patient consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Telemedicine can significantly reduce travel burdens and improve access to specialists, particularly for patients who may have mobility limitations or live far from medical centers. The availability of telemedicine services will be a significant factor in evaluating the overall quality of care.

The integration of mental health resources is an often-overlooked, yet crucial, aspect of prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the community. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will be viewed favorably. The ability to address the emotional and psychological needs of patients is an essential component of comprehensive cancer care.

The analysis will also consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and cancer support groups. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing information, and offering emotional support. Cancer support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to connect with others who are facing similar challenges, sharing experiences and offering mutual support. The presence of these resources can significantly enhance the patient experience and improve outcomes.

The evaluation will also examine the adoption of advanced technologies for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. This includes the availability of advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, as well as the use of minimally invasive surgical techniques and radiation therapy options. Practices that have invested in these technologies demonstrate a commitment to providing cutting-edge care.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the cost of care and the availability of financial assistance programs. Prostate cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can create significant stress for patients. The analysis will investigate the availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by pharmaceutical companies or charitable organizations, to help patients manage the costs of their care. Transparency regarding pricing and billing practices will also be considered.

The quality of communication between healthcare providers and patients is another critical factor. The analysis will assess the extent to which practices prioritize clear and effective communication, ensuring that patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects. Practices that actively involve patients in decision-making and provide readily accessible information will be given positive consideration.

Finally, the analysis will consider the overall patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the friendliness and responsiveness of staff, and the overall comfort of the practice environment. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and create a positive and supportive environment will be viewed favorably.

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in the 28386 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care provided by local practices. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and informative assessment that can help individuals navigate the healthcare system and make informed decisions about their prostate cancer care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Shannon and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data relevant to prostate cancer prevalence, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing and understanding the healthcare environment, allowing for a more informed perspective on the resources available in your community.