28606, Boomer, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28606, Boomer, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.00 percent of the residents in 28606 has some form of health insurance. 40.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.06 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 28606 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28606. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,164 health care providers accessible to residents in 28606, Boomer, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28606 and Boomer, NC

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28606, encompassing the town of Boomer, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas. We aim to assess the availability and quality of care, focusing on factors relevant to prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being. Our evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive prostate cancer care model.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in accessible primary care. Boomer, a rural community, faces challenges in this regard. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, responsible for early detection through screening and referral. The availability of PCPs directly impacts the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. A low PCP-to-patient ratio in Boomer could lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening rates, and ultimately, later-stage diagnoses. The absence of readily accessible primary care forces patients to travel further for routine checkups, creating a barrier to preventative care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While specific numbers are difficult to ascertain without access to real-time data, the rural nature of the region suggests potential challenges. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can strain the healthcare system. This can manifest in longer wait times for appointments, increased patient loads for individual doctors, and potentially, reduced time dedicated to each patient. This situation can negatively impact the quality of care, particularly in a complex disease like prostate cancer, where early detection and personalized treatment plans are paramount.

Within the 28606 ZIP code, identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. These include the availability of on-site urologists, the use of advanced diagnostic tools (like MRI and genomic testing), and the adoption of evidence-based treatment protocols. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive support services, and actively participate in clinical trials often demonstrate a higher standard of care. Assessing the quality of care offered by different practices necessitates examining patient outcomes, patient satisfaction scores, and the practice's commitment to continuous improvement. Without specific practice names, it is difficult to name standout practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Its adoption within 28606 is a crucial factor in our analysis. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating follow-up appointments. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience, enhance communication, and potentially reduce healthcare costs. The availability of telehealth options for prostate cancer patients, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, can significantly impact the overall patient experience.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive care. Practices that offer access to counselors, therapists, or support groups can help patients cope with the psychological challenges associated with the disease. Integrating mental health services into the care plan can improve patient outcomes, enhance quality of life, and promote overall well-being. The absence of these resources can leave patients feeling isolated and unsupported during a difficult time.

The overall Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP code 28606 is influenced by a complex interplay of these factors. The limited availability of primary care, coupled with potential challenges in physician-to-patient ratios, may pose significant hurdles to early detection and timely treatment. The degree to which local practices have embraced telemedicine and integrated mental health services will also significantly impact the score. Without specific data on these factors, it is impossible to assign a definitive score. However, the rural setting and potential resource limitations suggest a need for ongoing efforts to improve access to care and enhance the quality of services.

This analysis underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach to prostate cancer care. Addressing the challenges of primary care availability, improving physician-to-patient ratios, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health resources are crucial steps toward improving patient outcomes. Further investigation is needed to gather specific data on local practices and resources to provide a more comprehensive and accurate assessment.