29145, Silverstreet, South Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 29145, Silverstreet, South Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.32 percent of the residents in 29145 has some form of health insurance. 42.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.72 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 29145 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 293 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29145. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 147 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 549 health care providers accessible to residents in 29145, Silverstreet, South Carolina.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 29145 & Primary Care in Silverstreet**

Analyzing prostate cancer care within ZIP code 29145, which encompasses Silverstreet, South Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will examine the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), a crucial starting point for early detection and referral, along with the overall landscape of prostate cancer care, including specialist access, technology adoption, and mental health support, all vital components of a comprehensive patient experience.

The foundation of prostate cancer care often rests with the PCP. In Silverstreet, and indeed within the broader 29145 ZIP code, assessing PCP availability is paramount. Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into these ratios. However, these data points often lack the granular detail needed to fully understand the realities on the ground.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of primary care practices available are important. Are there solo practitioners, larger group practices, or affiliations with hospital systems? Group practices, particularly those connected to larger healthcare networks, often have the resources to offer a broader range of services, including on-site diagnostic testing and streamlined referral processes. Affiliations with hospitals can also improve access to specialists, such as urologists and oncologists, who are essential for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying standout practices within 29145 requires looking beyond basic metrics. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, such as proactive screening programs for prostate cancer, deserve recognition. This includes actively encouraging men over the age of 50, or those with a family history of the disease, to undergo regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams. Practices that utilize patient portals for communication, offer extended hours, or provide same-day appointments demonstrate a patient-centered approach that can significantly improve the overall care experience.

The availability of specialists is another critical factor. While PCPs are crucial for initial screening and referral, urologists and oncologists are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of prostate cancer. The proximity of these specialists to Silverstreet is a key consideration. Travel time to specialists can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely care. Hospitals and medical centers in nearby cities, such as Newberry, should be assessed for their urology and oncology departments.

The adoption of telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, and its impact on prostate cancer care is significant. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Practices that offer telemedicine options can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Silverstreet. Examining which practices within 29145 have embraced telemedicine and the types of services they offer (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring) is essential.

Mental health support is a frequently overlooked, yet critical, component of prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within the 29145 ZIP code, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a crucial part of this analysis.

The availability of support groups and patient education programs also plays a role. These resources provide patients with opportunities to connect with others who have experienced prostate cancer, share their experiences, and receive emotional support. Local hospitals, cancer centers, and community organizations may offer these programs.

The overall quality of prostate cancer care within 29145 is also influenced by the availability of advanced treatment options. This includes access to radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical interventions. The presence of these services within the local area, or within a reasonable travel distance, is a key indicator of the quality of care.

Evaluating the use of technology is another important aspect. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination, allowing physicians to easily share patient information and track progress. EHR systems also facilitate the use of data analytics, which can help identify trends and improve patient outcomes.

To further assess the landscape of prostate cancer care in 29145, a comprehensive approach would involve gathering data from multiple sources. This includes public health data, information from local healthcare providers, patient surveys, and community feedback.

In conclusion, evaluating prostate cancer care in 29145 requires a thorough understanding of PCP availability, specialist access, technology adoption, mental health resources, and the overall patient experience. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the current state of care and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within the 29145 ZIP code, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you analyze the spatial relationships between these factors and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Silverstreet and the surrounding areas.