15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.44 percent of the residents in 15137 has some form of health insurance. 51.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.57 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 15137 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,243 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15137. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,384 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,843 health care providers accessible to residents in 15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15137 and Primary Care in North Versailles**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 15137 (North Versailles, Pennsylvania) and the surrounding primary care landscape, focusing on factors crucial for patient well-being. We will assess the physician-to-patient ratio, identify standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in a comprehensive prostate cancer care model.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management begins with accessible and competent primary care. North Versailles, like many suburban communities, experiences fluctuations in its primary care physician (PCP) availability. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. While precise numbers are dynamic and subject to change, publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can provide estimates. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially compromised continuity of care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to primary care, facilitating earlier detection and management of prostate cancer risk factors.

The presence of a strong primary care infrastructure in North Versailles is vital. Early detection of prostate cancer often relies on routine screenings and discussions with a PCP. A PCP can order prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, conduct digital rectal exams, and provide referrals to urologists for further evaluation. The quality of primary care, encompassing factors like physician experience, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of evidence-based guidelines, directly influences the effectiveness of this initial screening process.

Within ZIP code 15137, the identification of standout practices requires a multi-faceted approach. We need to consider factors beyond just the number of physicians. Patient reviews, accessible through platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication skills, wait times, and overall satisfaction. Furthermore, the presence of board-certified physicians in internal medicine or family medicine is a key indicator of quality. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, and its impact on prostate cancer care is significant. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel, particularly beneficial for those with mobility limitations or residing in areas with limited access to specialists. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even some pre- and post-operative consultations. Practices in 15137 that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis is often underestimated. Mental health resources are essential for patients navigating this challenging journey. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, is a crucial component of a comprehensive care model. Practices that integrate mental health services, either on-site or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable emotional support and peer-to-peer learning.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized prostate cancer resources within the broader healthcare ecosystem is critical. Proximity to hospitals with urology departments, radiation oncology centers, and advanced imaging capabilities (e.g., MRI, PET scans) is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The presence of clinical trials and research opportunities can offer patients access to cutting-edge therapies.

Assessing the availability of these resources requires a systematic approach. Publicly available data from hospital websites, the American Medical Association (AMA), and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) can provide information on physician affiliations, specialized services, and research initiatives. Local community resources, such as the Prostate Cancer Foundation and local cancer support groups, can also provide valuable information and support.

The ideal scenario for prostate cancer care in North Versailles involves a well-integrated system. This system would include readily accessible primary care, proactive screening programs, timely referrals to specialists, access to telemedicine options, and robust mental health support. The presence of a strong primary care foundation, coupled with access to specialized urological care and mental health resources, is essential for ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

The evaluation of prostate cancer care in 15137 requires continuous monitoring and adaptation. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving. New technologies, treatment options, and patient needs emerge regularly. Regular assessments of physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources are crucial for ensuring that the community receives the best possible care.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in North Versailles, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and access the resources they need.