28683, Thurmond, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.37 percent of the residents in 28683 has some form of health insurance. 55.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.65 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 28683 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28683. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 329 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 441 health care providers accessible to residents in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina.

Prostate cancer, a significant health concern for men, necessitates a comprehensive approach to healthcare. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of prostate cancer-related care in ZIP Code 28683, focusing on primary care access in Thurmond, North Carolina. We’ll evaluate the landscape, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, culminating in a call to action for a powerful mapping tool.

Thurmond, NC, and the surrounding area within ZIP Code 28683, presents a unique healthcare environment. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians is paramount. A low physician-to-patient ratio can hinder access to preventative screenings, early diagnosis, and ongoing management of prostate cancer. This ratio influences the ability of men to receive timely checkups, including digital rectal exams and PSA (prostate-specific antigen) tests, crucial for early detection.

The characteristics of local practices are also vital. Are practices equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, such as advanced imaging technologies? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and oncologists specializing in prostate cancer? The presence of these resources directly impacts the quality of care. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education, providing comprehensive information about prostate cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options, are highly valued.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to address access challenges, especially in rural areas like Thurmond. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists can significantly improve patient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This is particularly relevant for men managing chronic conditions or those living in geographically isolated areas. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can reduce travel burdens and improve adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked aspect of prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources, such as counseling services and support groups, within or in close proximity to primary care practices is essential. Integrating mental health services into the overall care plan can improve patient well-being and treatment outcomes.

Evaluating the performance of individual practices within the ZIP Code requires a nuanced approach. Identifying standout practices involves considering several factors. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, offer comprehensive prostate cancer screening, and actively engage in patient education are noteworthy. Practices with strong referral networks to specialists and a focus on patient-centered care are also highly commendable.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Thurmond, and the surrounding ZIP Code, is a critical indicator of access. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care. This necessitates a careful assessment of the local healthcare infrastructure and the potential need for initiatives to improve physician recruitment and retention.

Telemedicine adoption varies widely. Some practices may have fully embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, while others may have limited or no telemedicine capabilities. This disparity can create significant inequities in access to care. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflows deserve recognition for their efforts to improve patient access and convenience.

Mental health resources are often underutilized. The availability of counseling services, support groups, and other mental health resources is crucial for patients coping with the emotional challenges of a prostate cancer diagnosis. Practices that prioritize mental health support and integrate it into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

The overall quality of prostate cancer care in ZIP Code 28683 is determined by a combination of factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the patient experience. A comprehensive assessment of these factors is essential to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

The ability to visualize and analyze healthcare data is crucial for understanding the landscape of prostate cancer care. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing physician density, practice locations, and access to resources. By using CartoChrome maps, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and patients can gain valuable insights into the availability and accessibility of care in their community. This can facilitate informed decision-making and support efforts to improve healthcare outcomes.

Understanding the nuances of prostate cancer care in Thurmond and the surrounding area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis has highlighted the key factors that influence the quality of care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. By considering these factors, we can work towards improving access to high-quality prostate cancer care for all men in the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 28683 and visualize the data discussed, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Use CartoChrome maps to analyze physician density, practice locations, and access to resources, empowering you to make informed decisions and advocate for improved healthcare outcomes in your community.