28645, Lenoir, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28645, Lenoir, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.53 percent of the residents in 28645 has some form of health insurance. 44.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.27 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 28645 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,701 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28645. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 9,468 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,587 health care providers accessible to residents in 28645, Lenoir, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Lenoir, NC (ZIP Code 28645)

The health landscape of Lenoir, North Carolina, specifically within the 28645 ZIP code, presents a complex interplay of factors influencing prostate cancer care. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a nuanced "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment. This score is not a single, quantifiable number, but rather a holistic evaluation based on the available data and the interplay of these critical elements.

Primary care availability forms the foundational cornerstone of prostate cancer screening and early detection. In Lenoir, the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical consideration. The physician-to-patient ratio within the 28645 ZIP code is a key indicator. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced opportunities for preventative care, including prostate cancer screenings. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and a higher likelihood of timely interventions. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from local hospital systems and healthcare networks, is necessary to ascertain an accurate physician-to-patient ratio within this specific geographic area.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts prostate cancer outcomes. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer comprehensive preventative care, including regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams for men over 50, or those with a family history of the disease? The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs facilitate better communication between physicians, improve care coordination, and allow for more efficient tracking of patient health data, including PSA levels and previous screenings. Practices that embrace these technologies are often better positioned to provide comprehensive prostate cancer care.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare ecosystem. This involves evaluating patient reviews, assessing the expertise of the physicians, and examining the resources available within each practice. Are there urologists in the area? Do they have experience in the latest prostate cancer treatments, such as robotic-assisted surgery or radiation therapy? The presence of these specialists and the availability of advanced treatment options are critical for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. Furthermore, the quality of the support staff, including nurses and medical assistants, plays a crucial role in patient experience and overall care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Lenoir. Telemedicine offers a convenient way for patients to access healthcare services, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. Practices that offer telemedicine options can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and potentially improve patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telemedicine is particularly relevant for prostate cancer patients, as it can facilitate remote monitoring and support.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a crucial element of prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either in-house or through referrals, are better equipped to support patients throughout their journey. This support can include counseling, support groups, and other resources that help patients cope with the emotional and psychological effects of the disease.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for the 28645 ZIP code is therefore a composite assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for prostate cancer care, characterized by greater accessibility, comprehensive preventative care, advanced treatment options, and robust support services. Conversely, a lower score suggests potential challenges in accessing care and a need for improvements in the local healthcare infrastructure.

The analysis of these factors is dynamic and requires ongoing monitoring. Healthcare landscapes evolve, with practices opening and closing, new technologies emerging, and patient needs changing. Regular updates to this assessment are essential to ensure its accuracy and relevance. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of prostate cancer care in Lenoir, NC, but further research and data collection are necessary to refine the assessment and identify areas for improvement.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower patients with information and to encourage healthcare providers to improve the quality and accessibility of prostate cancer care. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, patients can make informed decisions about their care, and healthcare providers can identify areas where they can enhance their services. This continuous improvement is crucial for improving outcomes and providing the best possible care for men diagnosed with prostate cancer in Lenoir and surrounding areas.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lenoir, including the location of medical facilities, physician density, and access to care, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.