28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.33 percent of the residents in 28668 has some form of health insurance. 37.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 97.78 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 28668 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 16 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28668. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 39 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 941 health care providers accessible to residents in 28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Roaring Gap, NC (ZIP Code 28668)

Analyzing the prostate cancer care landscape within ZIP Code 28668, encompassing the Roaring Gap area of North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the availability of medical professionals but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including access to primary care, mental health support, and the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine. This analysis will provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in early detection and consistent management, both of which are significantly influenced by access to primary care physicians (PCPs). Roaring Gap, being a relatively rural community, might face challenges in this area. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and consultations. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 28668 is critical. Publicly available resources from organizations like the North Carolina Medical Board or the US Department of Health & Human Services can provide this information. If the ratio is unfavorable, it necessitates exploring alternative solutions, such as telemedicine or increased outreach programs.

Primary care availability directly impacts prostate cancer outcomes. PCPs are the gatekeepers to specialist care, including urologists who specialize in prostate health. Regular check-ups with a PCP allow for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams, vital for early detection. A robust primary care network, offering convenient appointment scheduling and a patient-centered approach, is therefore paramount. If primary care access is limited, the "Prostate Cancer Score" will be negatively impacted. We need to assess the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, their appointment availability, and their willingness to refer patients for specialized care.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This involves evaluating the practices' commitment to preventive care, their use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and their patient communication strategies. Are practices proactive in educating patients about prostate cancer risks and screening guidelines? Do they offer comprehensive health assessments that include discussions about family history and lifestyle factors? The "Prostate Cancer Score" will reflect the overall quality of care provided by primary care practices in the area.

The next crucial element is the availability of urologists and other specialists. While PCPs are the first line of defense, urologists are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of prostate cancer. The presence of board-certified urologists within a reasonable driving distance is a significant positive factor. The "Prostate Cancer Score" will consider the proximity of urology practices, their appointment availability, and their expertise in various treatment modalities, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy.

Standout practices, those that excel in providing comprehensive prostate cancer care, deserve special recognition. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient education, utilize advanced diagnostic tools, and offer a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. They might incorporate nurse navigators to guide patients through the complexities of cancer care or offer support groups for patients and their families. Identifying and highlighting these standout practices can help patients make informed decisions about their care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve the "Prostate Cancer Score." This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the ease of use of telemedicine platforms.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical in cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The "Prostate Cancer Score" must account for the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, who specialize in oncology. Are there local mental health services available, and do they have experience in supporting cancer patients? The integration of mental health support into the overall care plan is essential for holistic patient well-being.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and patient education resources is essential. Cancer support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support. Patient education materials, such as brochures, websites, and educational videos, can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. The "Prostate Cancer Score" should reflect the availability and accessibility of these resources.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for Roaring Gap (28668) will be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. It will reflect the accessibility of primary care, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care provided. A high score indicates a robust healthcare infrastructure that supports early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient support. A low score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding access to specialists, and promoting the use of telemedicine.

This analysis is a starting point. A comprehensive assessment requires gathering data from various sources, including healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patient surveys. The insights gained from this analysis can be used to inform healthcare planning, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately improve prostate cancer outcomes for residents of Roaring Gap.

To visualize the healthcare landscape and identify potential gaps in care, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the locations of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data, providing a clear and comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in 28668. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of prostate cancer care in your community.