28689, Union Grove, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28689, Union Grove, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.31 percent of the residents in 28689 has some form of health insurance. 22.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.33 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 28689 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28689. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,681 health care providers accessible to residents in 28689, Union Grove, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Union Grove, NC (ZIP Code 28689)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Union Grove, North Carolina (ZIP code 28689) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the overall physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources – all crucial elements in providing comprehensive and accessible prostate cancer care. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management rests upon robust primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact, responsible for screening, early detection, and initial patient education. Assessing primary care availability in Union Grove is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code and surrounding areas is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, delayed diagnosis of prostate cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more proactive healthcare. Investigating the specific numbers, comparing them to state and national averages, is essential for understanding the overall health of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within Union Grove matters. Are they concentrated in specific areas, leaving others underserved? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers that cater to vulnerable populations? These factors influence the equity of healthcare access. Analyzing the geographic distribution of PCPs, considering transportation options, and evaluating the availability of translation services are essential components of this assessment. The presence of specialists, such as urologists, within or easily accessible to the community is also critical. While PCPs handle initial screening and referrals, the expertise of urologists is vital for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of prostate cancer.

Identifying standout practices within Union Grove is a key element of this analysis. These practices may exhibit exemplary patient care, utilize advanced diagnostic techniques, or demonstrate a commitment to patient education and support. Examining patient reviews, assessing the use of evidence-based guidelines, and evaluating the availability of comprehensive prostate cancer screening programs can help identify these leading providers. Furthermore, investigating the adoption of innovative technologies, such as advanced imaging techniques (e.g., MRI-guided biopsies), can highlight practices at the forefront of prostate cancer care. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including PCPs, urologists, oncologists, and support staff, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Union Grove. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine by local PCPs and specialists is crucial. Does the community have access to virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education? Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve convenience, and facilitate timely access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Assessing the availability of telehealth platforms, the integration of remote monitoring devices, and the training of healthcare providers in telemedicine practices is an essential part of this analysis.

The mental health of prostate cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it plays a critical role in overall well-being and treatment outcomes. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources within Union Grove is, therefore, essential. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in cancer-related issues? Are there support groups or other community-based resources that provide emotional support to patients and their families? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including access to behavioral health specialists and support groups, is a critical indicator of a comprehensive approach to prostate cancer management.

The overall 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Union Grove, NC (ZIP code 28689) is complex. It is not a simple numerical value but rather a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare environment with ample primary care availability, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily accessible mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest challenges in accessing care, potentially leading to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and poorer patient outcomes.

This analysis is not a definitive ranking but a framework for understanding the local healthcare landscape. Further investigation, including direct engagement with healthcare providers, patient surveys, and detailed data analysis, would be necessary to arrive at a precise score. However, by considering the factors outlined above, a more informed understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of prostate cancer care in Union Grove can be achieved.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare resources available in Union Grove and surrounding areas, including the locations of PCPs, specialists, and mental health providers, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a dynamic platform to visualize and analyze geographic data, enabling you to explore healthcare access and identify areas of need.