29685, Sunset, South Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 29685, Sunset, South Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.72 percent of the residents in 29685 has some form of health insurance. 40.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.80 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 29685 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 461 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29685. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 457 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,805 health care providers accessible to residents in 29685, Sunset, South Carolina.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment are complex, requiring a multifaceted approach. Analyzing the landscape of healthcare providers within a specific geographic area, such as ZIP code 29685 (Sunset, South Carolina), necessitates a comprehensive understanding of several key factors. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, access to specialists, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment for this specific region.

The foundation of good prostate cancer care rests on strong primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, including the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exams, is crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. In Sunset, the availability of primary care physicians is a key element in the overall Prostate Cancer Score. A detailed assessment would involve analyzing the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, comparing this number to the population of Sunset, and calculating the physician-to-patient ratio. Publicly available data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the U.S. Census Bureau can be utilized for this calculation.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This includes factors such as the physicians' experience, their commitment to preventative care, and their relationships with local urologists and oncologists. Practices that prioritize patient education about prostate cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening options will contribute positively to the Prostate Cancer Score. Furthermore, the presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication between primary care physicians and specialists is highly beneficial. These systems allow for easy sharing of patient information, leading to more coordinated and efficient care.

The availability of specialist care, particularly urologists and oncologists, is another critical factor. A robust network of specialists ensures that patients have timely access to advanced diagnostic procedures, such as biopsies and imaging, as well as various treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. The Prostate Cancer Score must reflect the number of specialists practicing in or near ZIP code 29685, the types of services they offer, and the ease with which patients can access their care. This involves considering the proximity of specialists, the availability of appointments, and the reputation of the specialists within the community.

Telemedicine adoption has significantly impacted healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The ability to consult with physicians remotely can reduce travel time and costs for patients, especially those living in areas with limited access to specialists. The Prostate Cancer Score should consider the extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in Sunset utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. This includes assessing the types of telemedicine platforms used, the availability of telehealth appointments, and the patient satisfaction with these services.

Mental health is often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but it plays a crucial role in patient well-being. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The Prostate Cancer Score should assess the availability of mental health resources in Sunset, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. This includes evaluating the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer, and the ease with which patients can access them. The presence of support groups specifically for prostate cancer patients and their families would significantly enhance the score.

Standout practices within the region deserve special recognition. These are practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in prostate cancer care. They may have a strong focus on preventative care, offer comprehensive diagnostic services, utilize advanced treatment technologies, or provide exceptional patient support. Identifying these standout practices involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing the physicians' qualifications and experience, and evaluating the practice's commitment to quality improvement. The Prostate Cancer Score should reflect the presence of these standout practices and the positive impact they have on the community.

The Prostate Cancer Score for Sunset, ZIP code 29685, is a dynamic assessment. It is not a static number but a reflection of the current healthcare landscape. It requires continuous monitoring and evaluation. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The score should also incorporate patient feedback and outcomes data to ensure that it accurately reflects the quality of care provided in the community.

To accurately assess the Prostate Cancer Score for Sunset, South Carolina, and to gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data, making it easier to understand the healthcare ecosystem in the area.