29137, Salley, South Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 29137, Salley, South Carolina is 2 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.43 percent of the residents in 29137 has some form of health insurance. 48.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.40 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 29137 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 327 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29137. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 528 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 133 health care providers accessible to residents in 29137, Salley, South Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29137 and Primary Care Availability in Salley, South Carolina**

This analysis assesses the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 29137 (Salley, South Carolina) and the surrounding area, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and resources available to address the holistic needs of patients. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the accessibility and quality of care for individuals navigating prostate cancer concerns.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care begins with accessible and robust primary care. Salley, a small town, presents a unique challenge in this regard. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of practicing physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants within the immediate vicinity and the broader region. A crucial factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential difficulties in accessing timely screenings and follow-up care. Data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the U.S. Census Bureau are vital for this analysis.

Beyond the raw numbers, the geographic distribution of primary care providers is critical. Are providers clustered in a single location, or are they dispersed throughout the community, making access easier for residents in different areas? Public transportation options, particularly for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations, also impact accessibility. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is an important consideration, as these facilities often serve vulnerable populations and provide comprehensive care, including preventative screenings and chronic disease management.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in patient care. Identifying these practices requires a multi-faceted approach. Online patient reviews, though subject to potential bias, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication, wait times, and overall satisfaction. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can indicate adherence to established quality standards. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to prostate cancer demonstrate a commitment to advancing treatment options and providing access to cutting-edge therapies.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. The availability of telehealth services for prostate cancer screenings, follow-up appointments, and consultations with urologists or oncologists can significantly enhance the patient experience. Practices that offer telemedicine options, especially those that integrate these services seamlessly into their existing workflows, are better positioned to serve patients in a geographically dispersed area like Salley.

Prostate cancer is a physically and emotionally challenging disease. Addressing the mental health needs of patients is an integral part of comprehensive care. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience supporting patients with chronic illnesses. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, provides patients with a platform to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support. Practices that proactively screen patients for mental health concerns and offer referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

The analysis should also consider the availability of resources related to prostate cancer education and support. This includes access to reliable information about prostate cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and survivorship. Organizations like the American Cancer Society and the Prostate Cancer Foundation offer valuable educational materials and support services. Practices that actively provide patients with these resources or partner with these organizations to offer educational programs are better equipped to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

Further analysis should include the types of prostate cancer treatments available in the area. Are there urologists or oncologists who specialize in prostate cancer? Do they offer the latest treatment options, such as robotic-assisted surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy? The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET scans, is also an important consideration.

The presence of a multidisciplinary team approach, where urologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists collaborate to provide comprehensive care, is a key indicator of quality. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive personalized treatment plans tailored to their individual needs. The ability of the local hospitals to handle surgical procedures and the availability of post-operative care are also essential factors.

The overall assessment of prostate cancer care in ZIP code 29137 and Salley requires a comprehensive evaluation of these factors. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting areas where improvements can be made to enhance the accessibility and quality of care for individuals facing prostate cancer. This analysis will provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve prostate cancer outcomes in the region.

To gain a visual representation of this data, including geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and access to resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can help visualize the data and provide a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.