28420, Ash, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28420, Ash, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.18 percent of the residents in 28420 has some form of health insurance. 51.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.97 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 28420 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 703 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28420. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 621 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,366 health care providers accessible to residents in 28420, Ash, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Ash, NC (ZIP Code 28420)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28420, encompassing the town of Ash, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors impacting patient access, quality of care, and overall well-being, culminating in a Prostate Cancer Score assessment. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the available resources and identify areas for potential improvement, particularly focusing on primary care availability and its impact on early detection and management.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer care is early detection. This hinges heavily on the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) for regular screenings and patient education. In Ash, the availability of PCPs is a crucial factor. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within the 28420 ZIP code is the first step. This ratio reveals the number of patients competing for each available PCP. A low ratio suggests greater access, while a high ratio indicates potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent care. Data from local healthcare providers, combined with publicly available information on physician distribution, is essential for this calculation.

Beyond sheer numbers, the geographic distribution of PCPs is also critical. Are the practices concentrated in specific areas, potentially leaving certain sections of Ash underserved? Travel time to appointments can significantly impact patient compliance with screening recommendations and follow-up care. The presence of practices offering extended hours or weekend appointments can further enhance accessibility, catering to the needs of working individuals.

Standout practices within the Ash area deserve recognition. These are the practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive prostate cancer care. This includes not only providing screening services (PSA tests, digital rectal exams) but also offering patient education materials, risk assessment tools, and referrals to specialists when necessary. Practices actively participating in community outreach programs, raising awareness about prostate cancer, and encouraging men to undergo regular screenings should be lauded.

The adoption of telemedicine presents another crucial element. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Ash. Virtual consultations with PCPs can facilitate initial screenings, discuss test results, and provide ongoing support. Telemedicine also enables access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in the 28420 ZIP code, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, is essential.

The mental health aspect of prostate cancer care should not be overlooked. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources, such as counseling services, support groups, and psychiatric care, is a critical component of comprehensive care. Assessing the presence of these resources within the Ash area, and their integration with primary care practices, is paramount. Are PCPs equipped to screen for mental health issues, and do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals?

Furthermore, the presence of specialists is essential for more complex cases. The availability of urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists in or near the 28420 ZIP code significantly impacts the quality of care. Analyzing the proximity of these specialists, the types of treatments offered, and the referral patterns of local PCPs is crucial. The efficiency of the referral process, including the timeliness of appointments and the coordination of care between primary care and specialist providers, is also a key consideration.

Another important factor is the affordability of care. The cost of prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment can be substantial. Assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers, and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients, is essential. Transparency in pricing and the provision of cost estimates for services can help patients make informed decisions about their care.

Based on the analysis of these factors, a Prostate Cancer Score can be assigned to the 28420 ZIP code. This score would reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of prostate cancer care available in the area. The score would be a composite of several sub-scores, each representing a specific aspect of care, such as PCP availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and specialist access.

The final score would provide a snapshot of the current state of prostate cancer care in Ash. It would highlight strengths and weaknesses, identifying areas where resources are abundant and areas where improvements are needed. The score could be used to inform healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers, guiding efforts to enhance prostate cancer care in the region.

The analysis would also consider the demographics of the area. The prevalence of prostate cancer varies among different populations. Understanding the demographic makeup of Ash, including age, race, and ethnicity, is crucial for tailoring screening and treatment strategies to meet the specific needs of the community. Targeted outreach programs and culturally sensitive care are essential for ensuring equitable access to care for all men in the area.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of prostate cancer care in the 28420 ZIP code requires a holistic approach. It involves evaluating the availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the proximity of specialists, and the affordability of care. By analyzing these factors, a Prostate Cancer Score can be generated, providing a valuable tool for assessing the quality of care and identifying areas for improvement. This score can be used to guide efforts to enhance prostate cancer care in Ash, ensuring that all men have access to the resources they need for early detection, effective treatment, and ongoing support.

To visualize the landscape of healthcare providers in the 28420 ZIP code and gain a deeper understanding of physician distribution, practice locations, and accessibility, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the geography of care, aiding in your decision-making process.