28747, Lake Toxaway, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28747, Lake Toxaway, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 65.38 percent of the residents in 28747 has some form of health insurance. 33.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.49 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 28747 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 595 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28747. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 344 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 957 health care providers accessible to residents in 28747, Lake Toxaway, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Lake Toxaway, NC (ZIP Code 28747)

This analysis examines the landscape of prostate cancer care within the Lake Toxaway, North Carolina (ZIP code 28747) area, focusing on primary care availability, physician resources, and related support services. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for men in this community, particularly concerning their access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for prostate cancer.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. In Lake Toxaway, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The area's relatively small population size, coupled with its rural character, likely presents challenges in terms of physician-to-patient ratios. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The availability of primary care physicians is a crucial first step in the prostate cancer journey. A proactive primary care physician is often the first line of defense, conducting routine screenings, discussing risk factors, and making timely referrals to specialists.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio requires careful consideration of data sources. Publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the North Carolina Medical Board, and local hospital systems can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the 28747 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data needs to be analyzed in conjunction with population figures to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, however, is just a starting point. It doesn't reveal the quality of care, the availability of specialists, or the overall patient experience.

Beyond the raw numbers, it's essential to identify standout practices within the Lake Toxaway area. These practices may be distinguished by their commitment to preventative care, their use of innovative diagnostic tools, or their patient-centered approach. Identifying these practices requires gathering information from various sources, including patient reviews, physician directories, and local community organizations. Practices that actively promote prostate cancer awareness, offer comprehensive screening programs, and have a strong track record of successful outcomes are worthy of recognition.

Telemedicine adoption represents another critical aspect of healthcare accessibility. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing patient concerns, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals living in rural areas. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in the 28747 ZIP code needs to be evaluated. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, the use of remote monitoring technologies, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing healthcare systems. Practices that embrace telemedicine can enhance patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is crucial for supporting patients throughout their journey. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and other mental health services. Assessing the availability of these resources requires researching local mental health providers, community organizations, and support groups that cater to cancer patients. Primary care physicians should be aware of these resources and be prepared to make appropriate referrals. A holistic approach to care, which addresses both the physical and emotional needs of patients, is essential for promoting overall well-being.

The quality of care also hinges on the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to healthcare, access to urologists, oncologists, and other specialists is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of prostate cancer. The proximity of specialists to Lake Toxaway is important. Travel distances to specialists may be a factor, especially for patients requiring frequent appointments or complex treatments. The availability of specialists can be determined by examining physician directories, hospital affiliations, and referral patterns.

Evaluating the prostate cancer score for Lake Toxaway involves synthesizing all of these factors. The analysis considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity of specialists. Each factor is weighted based on its importance in ensuring timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient support. The overall score reflects the quality of care available to men in the community.

The analysis also considers the broader context of healthcare in North Carolina. State-level initiatives and policies related to cancer screening, prevention, and treatment can influence the quality of care available in Lake Toxaway. Staying informed about these initiatives is essential for understanding the overall healthcare environment.

The prostate cancer score analysis is not a static assessment. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and healthcare policies emerging regularly. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the analysis remains accurate and relevant.

For a detailed, visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lake Toxaway, including physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable tool for visualizing healthcare resources and making informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Explore the maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.