28790, Zirconia, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28790, Zirconia, North Carolina is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.40 percent of the residents in 28790 has some form of health insurance. 31.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.06 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 28790 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 549 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28790. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 651 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,368 health care providers accessible to residents in 28790, Zirconia, North Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28790 and Primary Care Availability in Zirconia**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, specifically concerning prostate cancer care and primary care access within ZIP code 28790 (which encompasses Zirconia, North Carolina) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, their impact on prostate cancer screening and early detection, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) act as gatekeepers, initiating screenings, providing referrals to specialists, and coordinating patient care. In Zirconia, assessing the availability of PCPs is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio becomes a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a low ratio suggests a more accessible healthcare environment. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio for Zirconia specifically requires data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board. This data, however, can be difficult to obtain for such a small, rural area.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are equally important. Are practices accepting new patients? What are their hours of operation? Do they offer same-day appointments for acute illnesses? These factors significantly impact a patient's ability to access timely care. Practices that prioritize patient communication, provide clear information about prostate cancer screening guidelines, and offer proactive outreach for preventative care demonstrate a commitment to early detection and improved outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within the 28790 ZIP code is crucial. These practices often serve as models for best practices in patient care. They might excel in areas such as patient education, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and communication, or employing advanced screening techniques. They may also have established strong relationships with urologists and other specialists, ensuring seamless referrals and coordinated care for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. Researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites can help identify these exemplary practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Zirconia. Practices that offer telehealth consultations can provide convenient access to primary care physicians for routine check-ups, medication management, and follow-up appointments. This can be especially beneficial for patients who have mobility issues or live far from medical facilities. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists, such as urologists, for consultations and follow-up care related to prostate cancer. The presence of telemedicine capabilities within the 28790 ZIP code is a significant indicator of healthcare accessibility.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of comprehensive healthcare. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, within the local healthcare ecosystem is crucial. Do primary care practices have integrated mental health services? Are there local therapists or counselors who specialize in working with patients facing cancer diagnoses? The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care, addressing not only the physical aspects of the disease but also the emotional and psychological well-being of patients.

Assessing the specific practices in the 28790 area requires further research. It's important to identify practices that actively promote prostate cancer screening, educate patients about risk factors and symptoms, and offer support services for those affected by the disease. This may involve contacting local medical practices directly to inquire about their services and patient care protocols.

The analysis reveals that the primary care availability in Zirconia is subject to the limitations of a small, rural community. The physician-to-patient ratio, while not definitively established here, is likely influenced by the population density of the area. The presence of standout practices and the adoption of telemedicine are key factors in improving healthcare access. Furthermore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care network is crucial for comprehensive patient care. A thorough understanding of these factors is essential for assessing the overall prostate cancer care landscape in the area.

The overall “Prostate Cancer Score” for the area would be determined by a composite of these factors. It would be a combination of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of proactive screening programs, the availability of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more robust and accessible healthcare environment for prostate cancer patients.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Zirconia and the surrounding areas, and to visualize the location of medical practices, patient demographics, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the power of geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial analysis. Consider utilizing interactive mapping tools to analyze the distribution of healthcare resources.