20057, Washington, District of Columbia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 20057, Washington, District of Columbia is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.62 percent of the residents in 20057 has some form of health insurance. 7.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 96.12 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 20057 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 929 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 137 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20057. An estimate of 29 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 22 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19,364 health care providers accessible to residents in 20057, Washington, District of Columbia.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 20057 & Washington State

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 20057 and the broader context of primary care availability in Washington State. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, ultimately culminating in a call to action for enhanced data visualization through CartoChrome maps.

ZIP code 20057, encompassing the Bethesda Naval Hospital and surrounding areas, presents a unique demographic. It's characterized by a significant concentration of military personnel, veterans, and their families. This influences the healthcare landscape, potentially leading to specialized care options and a heightened awareness of health issues, including prostate cancer.

The evaluation begins with assessing physician-to-patient ratios. While precise, granular data for this specific ZIP code requires detailed access to proprietary datasets, we can infer trends. The presence of a major military medical facility suggests a potentially higher concentration of specialists, including urologists, compared to more rural areas. However, the demand for care within this population, coupled with the potential for transient populations and varying levels of insurance coverage, could influence access. The overall primary care physician (PCP) to patient ratio in Washington state, while not directly applicable to 20057, provides a crucial backdrop. Washington, like many states, grapples with PCP shortages, particularly in underserved areas. This scarcity can impact the timely detection and management of prostate cancer, as PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for screening and referrals.

Standout practices within the 20057 area are likely to include those affiliated with the Bethesda Naval Hospital. These institutions often boast advanced diagnostic capabilities, including state-of-the-art imaging and advanced prostate cancer treatments. Their affiliation with the military system often means access to specialized expertise, including robotic surgery and clinical trials. Other practices may focus on a more patient-centered approach, emphasizing personalized care plans and support services. However, identifying these standout practices requires more detailed research into patient reviews, practice size, and the specific services offered.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth across the healthcare spectrum, and prostate cancer care is no exception. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including convenient follow-up appointments, remote monitoring of symptoms, and access to specialists for patients living in areas with limited access to care. The presence of a military hospital in 20057 could further influence telemedicine adoption, as the military health system has been a pioneer in telehealth services. However, the success of telemedicine depends on factors like patient access to technology, digital literacy, and the willingness of physicians to embrace these new technologies.

Mental health resources are also essential in prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health support services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial for comprehensive patient care. The 20057 area, with its proximity to the Bethesda Naval Hospital, may have access to specialized mental health resources for veterans and their families. However, it is essential to assess the accessibility and utilization of these resources, as well as the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan.

The broader context of primary care availability in Washington State is crucial. The state faces challenges in ensuring equitable access to primary care, particularly in rural areas. This can lead to delays in prostate cancer screening and diagnosis, as patients may have difficulty accessing PCPs for routine checkups and referrals. The state government and healthcare providers are working to address these challenges, including expanding telehealth services, increasing the number of primary care physicians, and improving access to care for underserved populations.

In conclusion, the prostate cancer care landscape in ZIP code 20057 and Washington State is complex. While the presence of a major military medical facility offers potential advantages in terms of specialized care and resources, the broader challenges of primary care availability and mental health support need to be addressed. A comprehensive analysis requires a deep dive into specific practice data, patient demographics, and the integration of various healthcare services.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of this intricate landscape, we recommend utilizing the power of data visualization. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, enabling users to identify patterns, trends, and disparities in access to care. By mapping physician-to-patient ratios, the location of specialist practices, and the availability of mental health resources, we can gain a clearer picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system.

Furthermore, CartoChrome maps can be used to track the adoption of telemedicine and assess its impact on patient outcomes. By visualizing data on patient access to technology and digital literacy, we can identify areas where telehealth initiatives are most needed. The platform also allows for the integration of data on social determinants of health, such as income, education, and access to transportation, which can significantly impact prostate cancer outcomes.

By leveraging the power of CartoChrome maps, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and patients can make informed decisions about resource allocation, healthcare delivery, and patient care. The platform enables a data-driven approach to improving prostate cancer outcomes and ensuring equitable access to care for all. Explore the possibilities and unlock the power of data visualization.