28786, Waynesville, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28786, Waynesville, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.51 percent of the residents in 28786 has some form of health insurance. 42.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.98 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 28786 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,022 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28786. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,398 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,468 health care providers accessible to residents in 28786, Waynesville, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Waynesville, NC (ZIP Code 28786)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Waynesville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28786), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, the quality of primary care, the integration of modern technologies like telemedicine, and the crucial link to mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Prostate Cancer Score," reflecting the overall accessibility and quality of care available to men in this community.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on the availability of qualified medical professionals. Within Waynesville, the physician-to-patient ratio for urologists is a critical factor. Data from sources like the American Medical Association and state medical boards is essential to determine the precise number of practicing urologists within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data must then be compared to the population demographics, particularly the male population over 50, the demographic most at risk for prostate cancer. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of urologists, would negatively impact the "Prostate Cancer Score." Conversely, a higher ratio, suggesting greater access to specialists, would improve the score. This analysis must also consider the proximity of specialists in neighboring towns and cities, as patients often travel for specialized care.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in early detection and ongoing management of prostate cancer. The availability and quality of primary care in Waynesville are therefore crucial. Assessing the number of PCPs, their patient load, and the types of services they offer forms a significant part of the evaluation. Are PCPs accepting new patients? Do they routinely offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings, a key diagnostic tool? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and other specialists? The "Prostate Cancer Score" will be influenced by the robustness of the primary care infrastructure. Practices that prioritize preventative care, provide patient education, and foster strong doctor-patient relationships will contribute positively to the score.

Identifying standout practices within Waynesville is also essential. This involves looking beyond simple metrics and examining the quality of care delivery. This might include researching patient reviews, analyzing outcomes data (where available), and evaluating the use of advanced technologies. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offer comprehensive care, and actively participate in community outreach programs would receive higher marks. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists, would also significantly improve the score. The ability of practices to navigate insurance complexities and provide financial counseling for patients is another important consideration.

The adoption of telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access specialists remotely, reducing travel time and improving access to care. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services for prostate cancer consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education within Waynesville is therefore essential. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, will receive a higher score. This technology can significantly improve the patient experience and enhance access to care, especially for those living in geographically isolated areas.

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care, but it is critically important. A prostate cancer diagnosis can trigger anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources in Waynesville is a key component of the "Prostate Cancer Score." Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in cancer-related issues? Do local hospitals and clinics offer support groups or counseling services for patients and their families? The presence of readily accessible mental health resources will contribute positively to the score, demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Waynesville (ZIP Code 28786) is a dynamic measure, reflecting the interplay of various factors. It is not a static number, but rather a composite assessment of the healthcare landscape. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Any analysis must be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare environment.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for Waynesville is likely to be influenced by the rural nature of the area. Rural communities often face challenges in accessing specialized medical care. However, the presence of dedicated medical professionals, the adoption of technology, and a strong emphasis on patient-centered care can mitigate these challenges. The score will provide a valuable snapshot of the current state of prostate cancer care in Waynesville, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

In conclusion, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Waynesville, NC, is a complex assessment. It is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing quality healthcare. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waynesville and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and demographic data, explore the power of geographic visualization.

**Click here to explore the healthcare landscape of Waynesville and beyond with interactive maps from CartoChrome. Gain valuable insights and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.**