28713, Bryson City, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28713, Bryson City, North Carolina is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.67 percent of the residents in 28713 has some form of health insurance. 44.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.40 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 28713 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,943 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28713. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,750 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 926 health care providers accessible to residents in 28713, Bryson City, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Bryson City, NC (ZIP Code 28713)

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within Bryson City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28713), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, which are crucial for early detection and management of this disease. We’ll examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all contributing factors to a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" for the area.

Bryson City, nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural setting often translates to limited resources compared to more urban environments. The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a single, quantifiable number but rather a holistic assessment considering various interconnected factors.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

A cornerstone of effective prostate cancer care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are typically the first point of contact, responsible for screening, initial diagnosis, and coordinating specialist referrals. The physician-to-patient ratio in 28713 is a critical indicator. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per patient) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses.

Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio for this ZIP code is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services can provide valuable insights. This data should be supplemented with local knowledge, including patient testimonials and online reviews, to gain a comprehensive understanding.

**Standout Practices: Identifying Excellence**

Within Bryson City, identifying primary care practices that excel in prostate cancer screening and management is vital. This requires evaluating several factors. Do these practices routinely offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, a key screening tool? Do they follow established guidelines for PSA testing frequency and interpretation, considering factors like age, family history, and race?

Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education and shared decision-making are highly valued. Do they provide patients with clear explanations of their risk factors, the benefits and risks of screening, and the available treatment options? Practices that foster a strong patient-physician relationship and prioritize preventative care will likely contribute positively to the "Prostate Cancer Score."

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to overcome geographical barriers in rural areas like Bryson City. The ability to consult with specialists remotely can significantly improve access to care. Examining the adoption of telemedicine by local primary care practices is therefore essential.

Are practices utilizing telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations? Do they offer virtual consultations with urologists or other specialists? The availability and accessibility of telemedicine can significantly impact the "Prostate Cancer Score" by improving access to timely and specialized care.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Psychological Impact**

A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a profound psychological impact on patients and their families. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score."

Are mental health professionals readily accessible in Bryson City? Are there partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers to facilitate referrals? Do local support groups exist for prostate cancer patients and their families? Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients will contribute significantly to a higher "Prostate Cancer Score."

**Specific Considerations for Bryson City**

Given the rural nature of Bryson City, transportation challenges may impact access to care. Practices that offer flexible appointment scheduling, extended hours, or transportation assistance programs may receive a higher score. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies is also essential to ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.

The presence of a local hospital or clinic with urology services is also a significant factor. The availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as ultrasound and biopsy capabilities, can streamline the diagnostic process and improve patient outcomes.

**Overall "Prostate Cancer Score" Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Bryson City will be a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. A high score would indicate:

* A favorable physician-to-patient ratio.
* Practices that routinely offer PSA screening and follow established guidelines.
* Strong patient education and shared decision-making practices.
* Widespread adoption of telemedicine.
* Readily available mental health resources.
* Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations.

A lower score would reflect the opposite conditions. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of prostate cancer care in Bryson City, allowing for informed decision-making by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

**Moving Forward: Visualizing the Landscape with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bryson City and visualize the distribution of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent physician locations, hospital locations, and the availability of various healthcare services within the ZIP code. This visual representation can aid in identifying areas with limited access to care and inform strategies for improving healthcare delivery.

Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access in Bryson City and other rural communities.