28395, Wade, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28395, Wade, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.29 percent of the residents in 28395 has some form of health insurance. 27.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.05 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 28395 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 459 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28395. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 371 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 727 health care providers accessible to residents in 28395, Wade, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28395 & Primary Care Availability in Wade, NC**

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28395, encompassing the town of Wade, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers factors crucial for patient well-being, including physician accessibility, the quality of primary care, and the availability of supportive services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to men in Wade and identify areas for potential improvement. This analysis is not a definitive ranking but an assessment of the current state of care.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer management is early detection and prompt intervention. This necessitates access to primary care physicians (PCPs) who can screen patients, make timely referrals to specialists, and provide ongoing support. In Wade, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Examining physician-to-patient ratios is essential. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, can lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times, and reduced access to preventative care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better accessibility, potentially leading to improved outcomes. Data from local health departments and state medical boards can provide insights into the PCP-to-patient ratio within the 28395 ZIP code and surrounding areas.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves assessing the practices' commitment to preventative screenings, patient education, and coordinated care. Practices that actively promote prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams (DREs), and offer comprehensive patient education materials are likely to provide superior care. Furthermore, practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) and facilitate seamless communication between PCPs and specialists contribute to a more efficient and patient-centered experience. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening and treatment is another key indicator of quality.

Identifying standout practices within the 28395 ZIP code is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing innovative approaches to improve outcomes. This may involve offering extended hours, providing bilingual services, or actively engaging with patients to address their concerns. Researching patient reviews, online ratings, and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience within different practices. Additionally, investigating the practices' participation in quality improvement initiatives and their adherence to best practices can help identify those that are excelling in prostate cancer care.

The rise of telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Wade. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially shortening wait times. The adoption of telemedicine by practices within the 28395 ZIP code is an important factor to consider. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the ease of use of the telemedicine platforms. Practices that embrace telemedicine can expand their reach and provide more convenient access to care for patients in Wade.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups that specialize in addressing the emotional challenges associated with cancer. Investigating the presence of mental health professionals within the practices or in the surrounding community is essential. Additionally, assessing the availability of support groups, educational programs, and resources for patients and their families is critical. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients are likely to provide a more holistic and supportive care experience.

The coordination of care is another key aspect of quality. This involves ensuring seamless communication between PCPs, urologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in a patient's care. Practices that utilize EHRs, facilitate electronic referrals, and actively communicate with other providers are better equipped to provide coordinated care. Assessing the practices' commitment to care coordination, including the use of care management programs and patient navigators, can provide valuable insights into the overall quality of care.

The availability of specialized services, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology, is also important. Patients diagnosed with prostate cancer require access to these services, which may be available within the 28395 ZIP code or in nearby communities. Assessing the proximity of these services, the quality of the facilities, and the expertise of the specialists is crucial. Additionally, evaluating the practices' ability to coordinate with these specialized services to ensure seamless transitions of care is essential.

The financial implications of prostate cancer treatment can be significant. Assessing the practices' commitment to providing financial counseling, assisting patients with insurance claims, and offering payment plans is important. Practices that prioritize financial accessibility can help alleviate the financial burden on patients and ensure that they can access the care they need. Investigating the practices' willingness to accept various insurance plans and their participation in programs that provide financial assistance to patients is crucial.

The overall assessment of prostate cancer care in the 28395 ZIP code and primary care availability in Wade involves considering all these factors. While a definitive numerical score is challenging to produce without detailed data, a qualitative assessment can be made. The presence of a sufficient number of PCPs, the quality of primary care, the availability of telemedicine, the access to mental health resources, the coordination of care, and the financial accessibility of services all contribute to a positive assessment. The identification of standout practices, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines, and the commitment to patient-centered care further enhance the overall quality of care.

This analysis highlights the complex interplay of factors that influence prostate cancer care in Wade. Understanding these factors is essential for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike. Further investigation and ongoing monitoring are crucial to ensure that men in Wade have access to the highest quality of care possible. To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics, consider using CartoChrome maps.