28761, Nebo, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28761, Nebo, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.42 percent of the residents in 28761 has some form of health insurance. 41.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.90 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 28761 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,084 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28761. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,510 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,626 health care providers accessible to residents in 28761, Nebo, North Carolina.

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 28761, encompassing the Nebo, North Carolina area, requires a nuanced assessment. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the specific resources dedicated to prostate cancer screening and treatment, and the overall accessibility of care within this community. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, ultimately informing patients and providers alike.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management rests on the availability of primary care. These physicians are often the first point of contact, responsible for initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing management of patient health. Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. In Nebo, a detailed analysis of these ratios is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and possibly even the U.S. Census Bureau, can offer insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the 28761 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data, when combined with population estimates, allows for a rough calculation of the physician-to-patient ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of these physicians is also critical. Are primary care practices clustered in specific areas, leaving other parts of Nebo underserved? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers that cater to underserved populations? These factors influence the ease with which residents can access primary care services, which is the first step in prostate cancer detection and management.

Identifying standout practices is also essential. Some practices may have a particular focus on men's health, offering specialized screening programs or a more patient-centered approach. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to early detection, patient education, and collaboration with urologists and other specialists. Evaluating these practices requires more than just looking at physician listings. It necessitates researching their websites, reading patient reviews (while taking them with a grain of salt), and potentially contacting the practices directly to inquire about their prostate cancer screening and treatment protocols.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine, or telehealth, has revolutionized healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Nebo. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive test results, and even participate in support groups. The extent to which primary care practices and specialists in the 28761 ZIP code have embraced telemedicine is a key indicator of their commitment to patient convenience and access. This involves investigating whether practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and secure patient portals for communication.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is an essential element of prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in working with cancer patients is critical. These resources can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological impact of their diagnosis and treatment. Researching the presence of mental health services within the local healthcare network, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is an important aspect of the overall assessment.

The presence of dedicated prostate cancer specialists, such as urologists and oncologists, is a key indicator of the quality of care available in the Nebo area. Access to these specialists is crucial for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing management of the disease. Determining the number of urologists and oncologists serving the 28761 ZIP code, their affiliations with hospitals or clinics, and their areas of expertise is essential. This includes assessing their use of advanced technologies, such as robotic surgery and radiation therapy, which can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as support groups, patient education programs, and resources for financial assistance, can significantly improve the quality of life for prostate cancer patients. These services provide patients with the information, emotional support, and practical assistance they need to navigate their diagnosis and treatment. Identifying and evaluating the availability of these services within the Nebo community is an important aspect of the overall assessment.

A comprehensive assessment of prostate cancer care in the 28761 ZIP code should also consider the local hospital or medical center's resources. Does the hospital have a dedicated oncology department? Does it offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, such as MRI, PET scans, and radiation therapy? Is the hospital accredited by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Surgeons? These factors can significantly influence the quality of care available to prostate cancer patients.

Finally, the assessment should consider the patient experience. Are patients satisfied with the care they receive? Are they able to easily access the services they need? Are they well-informed about their diagnosis and treatment options? Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews, while imperfect, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

In conclusion, evaluating prostate cancer care in Nebo requires a multi-faceted approach. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources are all critical components of a comprehensive analysis. The availability of specialized physicians, support services, and advanced treatment options also play a crucial role. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of prostate cancer care in the 28761 ZIP code and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Nebo and the surrounding areas, including the distribution of physicians, hospitals, and other resources, explore the power of interactive mapping. CartoChrome maps can transform complex healthcare data into actionable insights. Visit CartoChrome to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.