28644, Laurel Springs, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28644, Laurel Springs, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.04 percent of the residents in 28644 has some form of health insurance. 42.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.22 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 28644 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 125 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28644. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 432 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 729 health care providers accessible to residents in 28644, Laurel Springs, North Carolina.

Analyzing prostate cancer care within Laurel Springs, North Carolina (ZIP code 28644) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician availability, the quality of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health support, all of which contribute to a comprehensive 'Prostate Cancer Score' for the region. This score is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer care is access to qualified medical professionals. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Laurel Springs is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer patient outcomes. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the American Medical Association are essential resources for determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and urologists practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. This data, however, needs to be contextualized. The age and health status of the population within 28644, including the prevalence of prostate cancer risk factors, significantly impact the demand for these specialists.

Primary care physicians play a vital role in prostate cancer screening and early detection. Their ability to conduct routine prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, perform digital rectal exams (DREs), and refer patients to urologists for further evaluation is paramount. The quality of primary care in Laurel Springs can be gauged by examining the availability of comprehensive primary care practices. These practices should ideally offer a range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and coordinated care with specialists. Assessing the presence of board-certified PCPs, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information sharing, and the availability of after-hours care are all indicators of high-quality primary care.

Identifying standout practices within Laurel Springs requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices with a demonstrated commitment to prostate cancer care. Factors to consider include the practice's experience in managing prostate cancer cases, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like MRI and ultrasound, and the use of evidence-based treatment protocols. Reviews from patients, if available, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including the doctor-patient relationship, the clarity of communication, and the overall satisfaction with care.

Telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Laurel Springs. Its adoption can significantly improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens for patients, and facilitate timely consultations. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption in 28644 involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations for prostate cancer-related concerns, including follow-up appointments, medication management, and educational sessions. The availability of telemedicine platforms that are user-friendly and HIPAA-compliant is also crucial. Assessing the ability of patients to access reliable internet connectivity is equally important.

The psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Mental health resources are therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. Evaluating the availability of mental health support in Laurel Springs involves assessing whether local practices offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. This includes assessing the availability of therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists who specialize in oncology or have experience in supporting patients with cancer. The presence of support groups and educational resources, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or the Prostate Cancer Foundation, is also important.

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Laurel Springs, 28644, is not a static metric. It is dynamic and evolves with changes in the healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of mental health resources. The score should be used as a tool to identify areas for improvement and to guide healthcare providers in their efforts to enhance the quality of care for patients with prostate cancer.

In conclusion, assessing prostate cancer care in Laurel Springs requires a thorough examination of physician availability, primary care quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. By considering these factors, a comprehensive 'Prostate Cancer Score' can be developed, providing valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This information can be used to improve patient outcomes and ensure that individuals in Laurel Springs have access to the best possible care.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Laurel Springs and visualize the distribution of medical resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, providing a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your area.