28578, Seven Springs, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28578, Seven Springs, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 73.59 percent of the residents in 28578 has some form of health insurance. 39.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.17 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 28578 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,085 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28578. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 495 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 198 health care providers accessible to residents in 28578, Seven Springs, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Seven Springs, NC (ZIP Code 28578)

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care and primary care availability within Seven Springs, North Carolina (ZIP code 28578). The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare resources available to men in this community, focusing on factors critical for early detection, effective treatment, and overall well-being. This involves assessing the presence and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs), specialists, and supporting services, alongside an evaluation of the community's healthcare infrastructure and potential gaps in care.

The availability of primary care physicians is the foundational element of prostate cancer screening and management. In Seven Springs, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the specific number of PCPs practicing within the 28578 ZIP code, alongside population data, allows for the calculation of this ratio. This data is then compared to regional and national averages to assess the relative adequacy of primary care resources.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the distribution of practices is important. Are the existing PCPs concentrated in a single location, or are they spread across the community, enhancing accessibility for residents in different areas? The presence of multi-specialty clinics, offering both primary care and access to specialists, can streamline the referral process for patients requiring further evaluation or treatment for suspected prostate cancer. The presence of such clinics, or the proximity to larger medical centers in nearby towns, is a significant advantage.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to proactive prostate cancer screening and patient education. This includes practices that routinely offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams (DREs), and educate patients on risk factors and early warning signs. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, manage screening schedules, and facilitate communication are also considered exemplary. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening and management, as recommended by organizations like the American Cancer Society, is another key indicator of quality care.

The increasing adoption of telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can provide access to specialists, facilitate follow-up appointments, and deliver educational resources remotely. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within the 28578 ZIP code, and the extent to which local practices have embraced this technology, is crucial. Does the community have access to virtual consultations with urologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in prostate cancer care? The ability to receive care from the comfort of home can improve patient convenience and potentially reduce the burden of travel for those living in more remote areas.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is therefore essential. This analysis investigates the presence of mental health providers within the community or nearby, and the ease with which patients can access these services. Are there partnerships between primary care practices and mental health professionals? Are there support groups specifically for men diagnosed with prostate cancer? Addressing the psychological needs of patients can significantly improve their quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of ancillary services that support prostate cancer care. This includes access to diagnostic imaging, such as MRI and ultrasound, as well as radiation therapy and chemotherapy services. The proximity to hospitals and cancer centers equipped to provide these services is a key factor. The availability of patient navigation services, which help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, is also assessed. Patient navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance.

The evaluation of primary care availability extends beyond the number of physicians. The analysis considers factors such as insurance acceptance, the availability of evening and weekend appointments, and the cultural competency of healthcare providers. Does the community have a diverse healthcare workforce that reflects the demographics of the population? Are there language services available for non-English speakers? These factors can significantly impact patient access to care and their overall experience.

The analysis also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors on prostate cancer outcomes. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to healthy food can all negatively affect health outcomes. The analysis will investigate the presence of social determinants of health within the 28578 ZIP code and assess the availability of resources to address these challenges. This includes access to food banks, transportation assistance programs, and other social services.

Finally, the analysis synthesizes all the collected data to provide a Prostate Cancer Score for the community. This score reflects the overall adequacy of healthcare resources, access to care, and the quality of prostate cancer services. The score is designed to be a valuable tool for community members, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive visualization of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic locations, and the distribution of mental health services, within the 28578 ZIP code. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. **Explore the healthcare landscape of Seven Springs with CartoChrome maps to gain a visual perspective on the availability of essential resources.**