28768, Pisgah Forest, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28768, Pisgah Forest, North Carolina is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.51 percent of the residents in 28768 has some form of health insurance. 45.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.68 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 28768 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,348 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28768. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,310 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,154 health care providers accessible to residents in 28768, Pisgah Forest, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28768 & Primary Care in Pisgah Forest

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 28768, encompassing the Pisgah Forest area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. The goal is to assess the accessibility of essential medical resources and the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address prostate cancer concerns. This assessment will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management rests heavily on robust primary care. Early detection, regular screenings, and ongoing patient education are vital components of a proactive approach. A well-functioning primary care network serves as the initial point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is critical. In Pisgah Forest and the surrounding areas of 28768, understanding the number of primary care physicians available relative to the population size is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the precise physician-to-patient ratio for this specific ZIP code requires consulting local health authorities, county health departments, or healthcare provider directories. This data provides a baseline understanding of the accessibility of primary care.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, employing advanced diagnostic tools, and fostering a patient-centered approach. The presence of board-certified physicians, specialized training in urology or oncology, and affiliations with reputable hospitals are indicators of quality. Patient reviews, online ratings, and recommendations from other healthcare professionals can provide valuable insights into the reputation of local practices.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, particularly in rural areas like Pisgah Forest. It expands access to specialists, reduces travel time for patients, and facilitates remote consultations for follow-up care. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more convenient and timely access to prostate cancer screening and management services. Evaluating the availability of telehealth appointments, virtual consultations, and remote monitoring capabilities is a key component of this analysis.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources is a crucial element of comprehensive care. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with support groups demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Access to mental health support can help patients cope with the emotional challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment.

The presence of specialized services within the area, such as urology clinics and cancer centers, is also relevant. These facilities often provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including prostate biopsies, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. The proximity of these specialized services to primary care practices can improve the coordination of care and ensure timely access to advanced treatments.

Evaluating the insurance coverage accepted by local practices is also important. Access to care can be significantly impacted by insurance limitations. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, enhance accessibility for a broader population. Understanding the insurance landscape within the 28768 ZIP code provides a clearer picture of financial barriers to care.

In addition to the resources available, the educational initiatives undertaken by local practices can be highly beneficial. Practices that provide educational materials, host community events, or offer patient education programs play a crucial role in raising awareness about prostate cancer and empowering individuals to take proactive steps for their health. This can include information on screening guidelines, risk factors, and treatment options.

The overall quality of care is not just about the number of doctors or the presence of specialized facilities. It also encompasses the coordination of care among different healthcare providers. Practices that actively collaborate with specialists, share patient information efficiently, and participate in multidisciplinary care teams demonstrate a commitment to providing integrated and comprehensive care.

The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations is also important. These groups provide a platform for patients to connect with others who have similar experiences, share information, and receive emotional support. They can also provide valuable resources and information about prostate cancer.

Analyzing the data from all these factors, a comprehensive prostate cancer score can be generated for the doctors in ZIP code 28768 and the primary care availability in Pisgah Forest. This score would reflect the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address prostate cancer concerns. The score would consider the physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support.

The score would also consider the availability of specialized services, the insurance coverage accepted by local practices, the educational initiatives undertaken by local practices, the coordination of care among different healthcare providers, and the availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in the 28768 ZIP code and Pisgah Forest is an ongoing process. The local healthcare system is constantly evolving, with new practices opening, telemedicine capabilities expanding, and treatment options advancing. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to ensure that the information remains accurate and relevant.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28768, including the locations of primary care physicians, urology clinics, and other relevant resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that allow you to visualize healthcare data, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare system.