28681, Taylorsville, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28681, Taylorsville, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.99 percent of the residents in 28681 has some form of health insurance. 37.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.17 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 28681 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,606 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28681. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,127 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,159 health care providers accessible to residents in 28681, Taylorsville, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Taylorsville, NC (ZIP Code 28681)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Taylorsville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28681) necessitates a multifaceted approach. We need to assess the availability of primary care physicians, the potential for early detection and treatment, and the overall support system available to patients. This analysis will move beyond simple metrics, delving into the nuances of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the crucial aspect of mental health resources. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" analysis for the area.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Taylorsville, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative screenings, like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests. Conversely, a higher ratio, while seemingly positive, doesn't guarantee quality. The experience, specialization, and patient load of individual physicians are equally important. The analysis must consider the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, coupled with the size and demographics of the patient population. This initial assessment provides a baseline for understanding the accessibility of initial consultations and referrals to specialists.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts prostate cancer outcomes. We need to evaluate the practices themselves. Are they equipped with modern diagnostic tools? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and oncologists? Do they actively promote preventative screenings and patient education? Practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) and offer patient portals are generally better equipped to manage chronic conditions like prostate cancer. This level of technological integration often translates to improved communication, streamlined appointment scheduling, and better patient follow-up.

Standout practices within the 28681 ZIP code would be those demonstrating a commitment to proactive prostate cancer screening and management. This includes practices that offer comprehensive patient education materials, participate in community outreach programs, and actively track patient outcomes. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, providing clear and concise information about treatment options and potential side effects, are particularly valuable. The ability of a practice to foster a strong doctor-patient relationship is also paramount, as this can significantly impact a patient's willingness to adhere to treatment plans and attend follow-up appointments.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the "Prostate Cancer Score." Telemedicine offers the potential to increase access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Taylorsville. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patient progress remotely, and provide remote access to specialists can significantly improve the quality of care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms are better positioned to serve a wider patient population, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telemedicine can also facilitate access to second opinions from specialists outside the immediate area.

The psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment cannot be overstated. The "Prostate Cancer Score" must incorporate an assessment of mental health resources available to patients. This includes evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services within the community. Practices that actively screen for depression and anxiety, and provide referrals to mental health specialists, are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan is crucial for managing the emotional challenges associated with prostate cancer.

The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations is also a significant factor. These resources provide a vital network of support for patients and their families. They offer opportunities to share experiences, learn from others, and access valuable information about treatment options and coping strategies. The presence of active support groups within the Taylorsville area would positively impact the "Prostate Cancer Score."

Furthermore, we must consider the presence of local urologists and oncologists. The proximity and availability of these specialists are crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The "Prostate Cancer Score" will reflect the number of specialists practicing in the area, their qualifications, and their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers. The ability to quickly access specialized care is a key indicator of the quality of care available within the community.

The analysis will also consider the presence of local hospitals and cancer centers. The availability of advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and surgical expertise, is critical. The score will reflect the quality of care provided by these facilities, their accreditation status, and their commitment to research and innovation in prostate cancer treatment.

Finally, the "Prostate Cancer Score" will take into account the overall socioeconomic factors of the community. Factors such as income levels, access to health insurance, and educational attainment can all impact a patient's ability to access and afford quality healthcare. The score will reflect the community's ability to overcome these barriers and ensure equitable access to care for all residents.

In conclusion, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Taylorsville, NC (ZIP code 28681) is not a single number but a complex assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. It considers the availability and quality of primary care, the integration of technology, the presence of mental health resources, the proximity of specialists, and the overall socioeconomic environment. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of these factors, including practice locations, physician availability, and resource locations, consider exploring a map with CartoChrome.