28634, Harmony, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28634, Harmony, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.84 percent of the residents in 28634 has some form of health insurance. 36.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.26 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 28634 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28634. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 733 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,849 health care providers accessible to residents in 28634, Harmony, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Harmony, NC (ZIP Code 28634)

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28634, focusing on the availability and quality of services, particularly concerning primary care access in Harmony, NC. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" for the area.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer management lies in early detection and consistent primary care. In Harmony, a rural community, the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the likelihood of timely screenings and referrals. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. The ideal ratio, although varying depending on the source, generally suggests a manageable patient load for each physician, allowing for adequate time for patient consultations, screenings, and follow-up care. A higher ratio might indicate potential challenges in securing appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with census data for 28634, will provide the necessary information to calculate a preliminary physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio forms a crucial component of the overall score.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care practices is essential. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors such as the experience and training of the physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment (e.g., PSA testing), and the practice's commitment to patient education and preventative care. Practices that actively promote prostate cancer awareness, offer comprehensive screening programs, and demonstrate a patient-centered approach will receive higher scores. Reviewing online patient testimonials, if available, can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall quality of care provided. This qualitative assessment, combined with quantitative metrics, contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the primary care landscape.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within 28634 is crucial for enhancing access to specialist consultations and follow-up care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will be recognized for their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who may face transportation challenges or have limited mobility. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered and the ease of use for patients, will influence the score.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis cannot be overstated. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical factor in the overall assessment. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or through referrals to qualified mental health professionals, will receive higher scores. This integration demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals facing a cancer diagnosis. The presence of support groups, educational resources, and access to counseling services will also be considered.

The evaluation process will involve a multi-faceted approach. Publicly available data, online resources, and potentially, direct outreach to local healthcare providers will be utilized to gather information. The "Prostate Cancer Score" will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted importance of each of the factors discussed above: physician-to-patient ratio, quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The weighting of each factor will be determined based on its perceived impact on the overall quality of prostate cancer care in the community.

The final score will provide a snapshot of the current state of prostate cancer care within 28634. It will highlight areas of strength and identify potential areas for improvement. The analysis will not only inform residents about the resources available to them but also provide valuable insights for healthcare providers seeking to enhance their services and improve patient outcomes. This analysis is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

The final score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing for easy interpretation. The analysis will also include specific recommendations for improving prostate cancer care in Harmony. These recommendations may include suggestions for increasing the number of PCPs, promoting telemedicine adoption, and enhancing the integration of mental health services. The goal is to provide actionable insights that can contribute to a healthier community.

The analysis will consider the potential impact of external factors on the availability and quality of care. These factors may include changes in healthcare regulations, the availability of funding for cancer programs, and the demographics of the community. The analysis will also acknowledge the limitations of the data available and the potential for bias.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" will be a dynamic assessment, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves. Regular updates will be necessary to reflect changes in the availability of services and the quality of care. This ongoing evaluation will ensure that the community has access to the most current information and resources.

The analysis aims to empower residents of 28634 with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By providing a comprehensive assessment of prostate cancer care in the area, the analysis will contribute to a healthier and more informed community.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Harmony, NC (ZIP code 28634), and to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the "Prostate Cancer Score," we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data analyzed, offering valuable insights into the accessibility of care and the overall healthcare landscape of the area.