28719, Cherokee, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28719, Cherokee, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 61.45 percent of the residents in 28719 has some form of health insurance. 38.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.43 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 28719 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,761 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28719. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,090 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 511 health care providers accessible to residents in 28719, Cherokee, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Cherokee County, NC (ZIP Code 28719)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Cherokee County, North Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP Code 28719, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" perspective, evaluating the availability and quality of care related to prostate health, particularly within the context of primary care access. The assessment considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive prostate cancer care.

Understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. In rural areas like Cherokee County, access to specialists, including urologists, can be limited. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) becomes even more critical in this scenario. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact, conducting initial screenings and making referrals to specialists. Therefore, a robust PCP network is essential for early detection and management of prostate cancer. Assessing the ratio of PCPs to the population within 28719 and the broader Cherokee County is fundamental to evaluating the overall "Prostate Cancer Score."

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, and the expertise of the medical professionals. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education and shared decision-making, empowering patients to actively participate in their care, are also highly valued. Moreover, a practice's track record in terms of patient outcomes and adherence to established guidelines for prostate cancer screening and treatment is a key indicator of quality. Gathering data on these aspects requires in-depth research, potentially including patient reviews, peer recommendations, and publicly available information from healthcare accreditation organizations.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Evaluating the extent to which practices in 28719 and the surrounding area have embraced telemedicine is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care pathway. Practices that have successfully implemented telemedicine can potentially improve the "Prostate Cancer Score" by enhancing access to specialized expertise and facilitating timely interventions.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but plays a significant role in prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is therefore essential for supporting patients through their treatment journey. Evaluating the availability of these resources within the healthcare system of Cherokee County, and specifically in connection with primary care and urology practices, is a vital component of a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers can significantly improve the overall quality of care.

Primary care availability in Cherokee County is a crucial factor influencing the overall "Prostate Cancer Score." The accessibility of PCPs directly impacts early detection, timely referrals, and ongoing management of prostate health. Assessing the number of PCPs per capita, the geographic distribution of practices, and the availability of same-day or urgent care appointments are all important considerations. Furthermore, evaluating the ability of PCPs to provide comprehensive care, including preventative screenings and management of chronic conditions, is essential. A robust and accessible primary care network is the foundation for effective prostate cancer care in any community.

In conclusion, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 28719 and the surrounding Cherokee County hinges on a combination of factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with advanced diagnostic capabilities and a commitment to patient-centered care, the adoption of telemedicine to improve access, and the integration of mental health resources to support patients' emotional well-being. A thorough analysis requires a detailed examination of these aspects, considering the unique challenges of a rural healthcare environment.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cherokee County, NC, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform can provide valuable insights into physician locations, practice specialties, and access to care within your community.