15539, Fishertown, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15539, Fishertown, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.14 percent of the residents in 15539 has some form of health insurance. 55.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.93 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 15539 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 69 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15539. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 27 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 500 health care providers accessible to residents in 15539, Fishertown, Pennsylvania.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15539 and Primary Care Availability in Fishertown**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 15539, focusing on primary care accessibility in the broader community of Fishertown, Pennsylvania. The goal is to assess the availability and quality of resources for men at risk of, or diagnosed with, prostate cancer. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive cancer care.

The geographic area of 15539, centered around Fishertown, presents a unique challenge due to its rural nature. This characteristic often translates to a lower density of healthcare providers and potentially limited access to specialized care. The assessment begins by examining the physician-to-patient ratio, a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. Data from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health are used to determine the population within the ZIP code and the number of primary care physicians and urologists practicing in the area. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can signal longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced opportunities for preventative screenings and early detection.

The availability of primary care physicians is paramount in the context of prostate cancer. Primary care providers are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking routine screenings. They play a critical role in patient education, risk assessment, and the initial referral process. The analysis investigates the number of primary care physicians actively practicing in Fishertown and the surrounding areas, considering their training, experience, and any specializations relevant to men's health.

Identifying standout practices within 15539 is also critical. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to early detection, patient education, and comprehensive care. Factors considered include the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and imaging technologies like MRI. The analysis will also look at whether the practice has a multidisciplinary approach, including urologists, oncologists, and other specialists, to provide holistic care. Patient reviews and satisfaction scores, where available, are also considered to assess the quality of care delivered.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for extending healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The analysis evaluates the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in 15539. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for care. The assessment will examine the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the technological infrastructure supporting these services.

The emotional toll of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment cannot be overstated. Mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive cancer care. The analysis investigates the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, for patients in 15539. This includes identifying mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in cancer care and are familiar with the unique challenges faced by men with prostate cancer. The assessment will also consider the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and specialist clinics.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education materials and support programs. These resources can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and treatment options. The assessment will look at whether local practices and hospitals offer educational workshops, support groups, or online resources related to prostate cancer. The availability of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The rural setting of Fishertown presents specific challenges to healthcare delivery. Limited public transportation options and a potentially older population may create barriers to accessing care. The analysis will consider these factors and assess the strategies employed by healthcare providers to overcome these challenges. This may include offering transportation assistance, providing home health services, or utilizing mobile health clinics.

The assessment will also consider the affordability of care. Prostate cancer treatment can be costly, and financial barriers can prevent patients from accessing necessary services. The analysis will examine the availability of financial assistance programs, insurance coverage options, and other resources that can help patients manage the costs of care. This includes assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of payment plans or financial counseling services.

The analysis will culminate in a Prostate Cancer Score, a composite metric reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of prostate cancer care within 15539. This score will be based on the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The score will provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape and highlight areas where improvements are needed.

The findings of this analysis will provide valuable insights into the state of prostate cancer care in Fishertown and the surrounding areas. This information can be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members about the strengths and weaknesses of the current system. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality and accessibility of care for men at risk of, or diagnosed with, prostate cancer in this rural community.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 15539, including the location of physicians, clinics, and support services, we encourage you to explore interactive maps and data visualizations. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to easily identify and assess the availability of care in your area.