28779, Sylva, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28779, Sylva, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.68 percent of the residents in 28779 has some form of health insurance. 36.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.81 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 28779 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,841 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28779. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,832 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,152 health care providers accessible to residents in 28779, Sylva, North Carolina.

Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Sylva, NC (ZIP Code 28779)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Sylva, North Carolina (ZIP code 28779) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician availability, the quality of primary care, and access to supportive resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem and identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.

Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Accessibility

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on readily available primary care physicians (PCPs). Early detection, crucial for successful treatment, often stems from regular checkups and screenings initiated by PCPs. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Sylva is paramount. A low ratio can indicate limited access, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This analysis necessitates examining the number of PCPs practicing within the 28779 ZIP code and comparing it to the population size. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can provide this information.

Furthermore, the availability of appointments, wait times, and insurance acceptance policies must be considered. A practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio might still present challenges if appointments are booked weeks or months in advance, or if they don’t accept a wide range of insurance plans. The accessibility of primary care also extends to the physical location of practices. Are they conveniently located for residents, considering transportation options and geographic barriers?

Standout Practices and Specialist Availability

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. This includes the experience and qualifications of the physicians, the technologies and equipment available for diagnosis and treatment, and patient satisfaction ratings. Researching practices within the 28779 ZIP code requires investigating the credentials of the urologists and oncologists in the area. Board certification and years of experience are critical indicators of expertise.

Furthermore, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, is essential. Access to a multidisciplinary team, including urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, is crucial for comprehensive care. Patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and overall satisfaction.

Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Sylva can significantly impact prostate cancer care. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption requires assessing which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals.

The availability of high-speed internet access in the area is also a crucial factor. Without reliable internet connectivity, telemedicine services are limited. Furthermore, the integration of telemedicine into the existing healthcare system needs to be examined. Are virtual consultations integrated into the patient’s electronic health record? Are there protocols for follow-up care and medication management?

Mental Health Resources and Support

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive care. This analysis must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, within the Sylva area.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups specifically for prostate cancer patients and their families is crucial. These groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support. The integration of mental health services into the healthcare system is also important. Do practices offer on-site counseling services? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals?

Overall Assessment and Conclusion

The prostate cancer score for Sylva, NC (ZIP code 28779) is determined by the collective strength of these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare ecosystem with readily available PCPs, access to specialized care, telemedicine adoption, and comprehensive mental health support. A low score suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape. It is crucial to regularly update this information to reflect changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and evolving patient needs. Further investigation into specific practices and the experiences of local residents is essential for a complete understanding.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sylva and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice details, and population demographics, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.