28705, Bakersville, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28705, Bakersville, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.25 percent of the residents in 28705 has some form of health insurance. 42.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.47 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 28705 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,341 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28705. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,798 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,212 health care providers accessible to residents in 28705, Bakersville, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Bakersville, NC (ZIP Code 28705)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within Bakersville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28705), examining the availability and quality of services. We'll explore the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight notable practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and consider the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare environment for men concerned about prostate cancer.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer care is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Bakersville, primary care availability is a critical factor. A robust PCP network is essential for early detection, screening, and ongoing management. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual attention. Researching the current ratio in 28705 is essential. Public health data and local hospital reports can provide these figures.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are the PCPs in Bakersville actively screening for prostate cancer? Do they adhere to established guidelines for PSA testing and digital rectal exams? The presence of a strong primary care infrastructure, dedicated to preventative care, is the first line of defense against prostate cancer. This includes the availability of regular checkups and patient education regarding risk factors and early detection methods.

Specialized care, including urology services, is also crucial. The availability of urologists within or easily accessible to Bakersville is a significant factor. The presence of a urology practice, or its proximity, determines access to specialists who diagnose and treat prostate cancer. This includes access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and ultrasound, and treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires careful consideration. Factors to assess include physician experience, patient reviews, and the availability of comprehensive services. Practices that offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists, often provide the best outcomes. Researching local hospitals and clinics, and examining their patient satisfaction scores, is a key step.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Bakersville. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients who live far from specialists or have mobility issues. The availability of telehealth consultations with urologists and other specialists can significantly improve the patient experience. Assessing which practices offer telemedicine options, and the types of services available through this medium, is an important aspect of the analysis.

The mental health of patients undergoing prostate cancer treatment is often overlooked. Prostate cancer and its treatment can have a profound impact on a man's physical and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as counselors, therapists, and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their treatment plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes access to support groups and mental health professionals who understand the specific challenges of prostate cancer.

The availability of support groups is another important factor. Connecting with other men who have experienced prostate cancer can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. Local hospitals and cancer support organizations often host these groups.

The analysis should also consider the availability of resources for financial assistance. Prostate cancer treatment can be expensive, and access to financial aid programs can alleviate some of the burden on patients. Researching local resources and organizations that provide financial assistance is an important step.

The overall prostate cancer score for Bakersville, NC (28705) will be influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare environment with good access to primary care, specialized services, telemedicine options, and mental health resources. A low score indicates potential challenges in accessing quality care. The analysis should provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The data for this analysis should be gathered from multiple sources, including local hospitals, clinics, physician directories, and public health data. Patient reviews and online resources can also provide valuable insights. The analysis should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

By carefully evaluating these factors, men in Bakersville can make informed decisions about their healthcare. The analysis can also serve as a resource for healthcare providers, highlighting areas where improvements can be made.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Bakersville and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the area, allowing you to visualize the availability of healthcare services and make informed decisions about your care.