28654, Moravian Falls, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28654, Moravian Falls, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.56 percent of the residents in 28654 has some form of health insurance. 46.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.19 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 28654 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 276 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28654. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,215 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 753 health care providers accessible to residents in 28654, Moravian Falls, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Moravian Falls, NC (ZIP Code 28654)**

Analyzing the prostate cancer landscape within Moravian Falls, North Carolina (ZIP code 28654) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, their capacity to screen and refer for prostate cancer, and the broader healthcare infrastructure supporting patient well-being. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in prostate cancer care within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any effective prostate cancer care system is robust primary care. In Moravian Falls, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial factor. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources, potentially impacting the time physicians can dedicate to preventative screenings, patient education, and early detection efforts. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a more accessible system, allowing for more proactive patient management. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau.

Primary care practices in Moravian Falls vary in their approaches to prostate cancer screening. Some practices may have adopted evidence-based guidelines, such as the recommendations from the American Urological Association (AUA) or the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), which emphasize personalized screening based on individual risk factors. Others might follow more general protocols. The degree to which a practice adheres to these guidelines directly impacts the quality of care. Practices that integrate these guidelines into their standard operating procedures are more likely to identify potential cases early.

Standout practices within the area would ideally demonstrate several key characteristics. These include a commitment to preventative care, a focus on patient education, and a streamlined referral process to specialists, such as urologists and oncologists. Practices that actively engage in patient outreach, reminding patients of their screening schedules and providing educational materials, are likely to achieve better outcomes. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, can significantly improve efficiency and patient convenience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to offer virtual consultations and follow-up appointments can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can also facilitate communication between primary care physicians and specialists, enabling more coordinated and comprehensive care. The extent to which practices in Moravian Falls have embraced telemedicine is an indicator of their commitment to patient accessibility and technological advancement.

Beyond clinical care, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of comprehensive prostate cancer management. A cancer diagnosis, and its treatment, can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other psychological distress. The presence of support groups and other community resources further enhances the overall well-being of patients. Assessing the availability of these resources is an important consideration.

The referral process from primary care physicians to specialists, such as urologists, is another critical factor. A smooth and efficient referral process ensures that patients receive timely access to specialized care. This involves clear communication between physicians, efficient scheduling procedures, and a collaborative approach to patient management. The efficiency of this process can significantly impact the patient's journey.

The presence of local urologists and oncologists in or near Moravian Falls is also important. The proximity of these specialists reduces travel time and improves access to specialized care. The availability of advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and surgery, is another critical consideration. The ability to receive these treatments locally can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel.

Analyzing the quality of care in Moravian Falls also involves assessing the availability of patient education materials. Patients who are well-informed about prostate cancer, its risk factors, and treatment options are better equipped to make informed decisions about their care. Practices that provide educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and support groups, are likely to foster a more patient-centered approach to care.

The overall prostate cancer score for Moravian Falls, NC (28654) is derived from the aggregation of these factors. It is not a simple numerical score but a nuanced assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure. The physician-to-patient ratio, adherence to screening guidelines, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the final evaluation.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Moravian Falls and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to explore the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. They can also be used to analyze demographic data and identify areas with limited access to care.