29844, Parksville, South Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 29844, Parksville, South Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.00 percent of the residents in 29844 has some form of health insurance. 39.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.31 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 29844 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29844. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 42 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 383 health care providers accessible to residents in 29844, Parksville, South Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Parksville, SC (ZIP Code 29844)

Analyzing the prostate cancer landscape within Parksville, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29844), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), a crucial access point for early detection and referral, alongside the quality and accessibility of prostate cancer-related services. We'll delve into physician-to-patient ratios, explore standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, all vital components of a comprehensive prostate cancer care ecosystem.

Parksville, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in proactive screening and early intervention, which heavily depends on the availability and responsiveness of PCPs. The physician-to-patient ratio within this ZIP code is a critical starting point. Unfortunately, precise, publicly available data on this specific ratio for Parksville is difficult to obtain. However, we can extrapolate from county-level data (likely McCormick County, SC, given the ZIP code’s location) and surrounding areas to estimate the availability of PCPs.

Generally, rural areas often experience lower physician-to-patient ratios compared to urban centers. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a larger population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The impact on prostate cancer care is significant, as early detection is paramount for successful treatment.

Regarding standout practices, it is difficult to identify specific clinics or physicians without access to detailed practice-level data. However, it's important to consider factors that contribute to high-quality prostate cancer care. These include: a commitment to preventative screenings (PSA tests, digital rectal exams), patient education, and a clear referral pathway to urologists and oncologists. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, offer extended hours, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management are often better positioned to provide superior care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialists, particularly in rural areas. For prostate cancer, telemedicine can facilitate consultations with urologists, oncologists, and other specialists, allowing patients to receive expert advice without the need for lengthy travel. The use of telehealth for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even mental health support can significantly enhance the patient experience and improve outcomes. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within the Parksville area, and the willingness of local practices to embrace these technologies, is crucial.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or are familiar with the unique challenges faced by prostate cancer patients, is essential. These resources can provide crucial support during diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Evaluating the presence of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through external referrals, is an important aspect of the overall care landscape.

Furthermore, access to specialized prostate cancer services, such as urology clinics and radiation oncology centers, is another crucial factor. While Parksville may not have these specialized services directly, proximity to larger cities with comprehensive cancer centers is essential. The travel time to these centers and the ease of access to transportation can significantly impact the patient experience. The availability of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources that help patients navigate the complexities of cancer care is also important.

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in Parksville requires a comprehensive evaluation of several factors. While specific data on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources are difficult to obtain without detailed practice-level information, the general principles of quality care remain constant. Early detection through preventative screenings, access to specialists, the availability of telemedicine services, and the presence of mental health support are all critical components of a robust prostate cancer care ecosystem.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Parksville and the surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized services, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify potential gaps in care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.