28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.59 percent of the residents in 28775 has some form of health insurance. 68.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.94 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 28775 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 153 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28775. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 198 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,056 health care providers accessible to residents in 28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Scaly Mountain, NC (ZIP Code 28775)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within the confines of ZIP code 28775, encompassing the Scaly Mountain community in North Carolina, requires a nuanced approach. It's crucial to move beyond a simple ranking and delve into the specifics of healthcare access, physician availability, and the integration of modern technologies. The ultimate goal is to paint a realistic picture of the resources available to men in this area, considering the unique challenges of a rural setting.

The foundation of any assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In a sparsely populated region like Scaly Mountain, the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly urologists, significantly impacts the quality and timeliness of care. A low physician-to-patient ratio can translate into longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially compromised outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, when cross-referenced, can provide an initial estimate of this ratio. However, this data needs to be supplemented with information about physician specialization, patient load, and the geographic distribution of practices within the ZIP code and its surrounding areas.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for men experiencing symptoms suggestive of prostate cancer. Their ability to conduct thorough examinations, order appropriate screening tests like the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, and make timely referrals to urologists is critical. The analysis should consider the availability of PCPs who are actively engaged in prostate cancer screening and management, including their adherence to current clinical guidelines and their familiarity with the latest treatment options.

A key factor in assessing the overall score is the presence and accessibility of specialist care. The availability of urologists within a reasonable driving distance is vital. This includes not only the number of urologists but also the types of services they offer, such as diagnostic imaging (MRI, ultrasound), biopsy capabilities, and a range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. The analysis should also consider the proximity to larger medical centers that may offer advanced treatment modalities like robotic-assisted surgery or access to clinical trials.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by healthcare providers in the Scaly Mountain area can significantly impact the Prostate Cancer Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in educational programs. The analysis should investigate the availability of telemedicine services for prostate cancer-related consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. The ease of access to these services and the technological infrastructure supporting them are also important considerations.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The analysis should evaluate the availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the community or accessible to residents of Scaly Mountain. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including the ability of PCPs and urologists to identify and refer patients to these resources, significantly contributes to the overall score.

Identifying standout practices is a key component of the analysis. This involves recognizing healthcare providers who demonstrate excellence in prostate cancer care. This could include practices that have a high volume of patients, a strong track record of positive outcomes, and a commitment to patient education and support. The analysis should consider factors like patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines, and the availability of comprehensive care services.

The analysis must also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence healthcare access. Income levels, insurance coverage rates, and transportation availability can all impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. The analysis should consider the demographics of the Scaly Mountain community and assess the availability of resources to address these potential barriers. This includes the availability of financial assistance programs, transportation services, and culturally sensitive healthcare providers.

The Prostate Cancer Score is not simply a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to providing comprehensive and accessible care to men facing this disease. It requires a holistic assessment, taking into account physician availability, specialist care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and socioeconomic factors. The ultimate goal is to empower men in Scaly Mountain with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health and to ensure they have access to the best possible care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Scaly Mountain and the surrounding areas, including the geographic distribution of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care, the proximity of specialists, and the overall healthcare infrastructure of the region.