15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.91 percent of the residents in 15906 has some form of health insurance. 60.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.99 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 15906 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,590 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15906. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,236 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,052 health care providers accessible to residents in 15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

Prostate cancer, a significant health concern for men, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of available medical resources. This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 15906 (Johnstown, Pennsylvania) and assesses the accessibility of primary care services, ultimately providing a ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ perspective. The goal is to illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, assisting individuals in making informed decisions about their health.

Johnstown, a city grappling with economic challenges, presents a unique context for healthcare delivery. The availability of qualified medical professionals, particularly those specializing in urology and oncology, is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed care. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratios for urologists and oncologists within 15906 is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide valuable insights.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a pivotal role in early detection. Routine check-ups, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams, are often initiated by PCPs. The availability of primary care is, therefore, a critical factor. Assessing the number of PCPs practicing within 15906, alongside their patient loads, offers a preliminary understanding of access. Further investigation should include the acceptance of new patients by these practices, and the presence of after-hours or weekend availability, which can significantly impact the convenience of care.

Standout practices deserve recognition. Identifying practices known for their expertise in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment is essential. This involves examining the credentials of physicians, their affiliations with hospitals, and their experience in utilizing advanced technologies like robotic-assisted surgery or advanced imaging techniques. Patient reviews and testimonials, although anecdotal, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care. Examining the practice's commitment to patient education and support groups is also important.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly significant, especially in rural or underserved areas. The availability of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up appointments, can improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Investigating the extent to which practices within 15906 offer telehealth options, including the types of services available and the platforms used, is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of online patient portals for communication and access to medical records.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are equally important. A prostate cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the local healthcare system is crucial. Determining whether practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers is vital. Support groups, both in-person and online, can provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families.

The ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ for 15906 would be a composite measure, incorporating the factors discussed above. It would not be a single number, but rather a nuanced assessment, highlighting areas of strength and weakness. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare ecosystem with readily available specialists, advanced treatment options, and a strong emphasis on patient support. A lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing care, requiring individuals to be more proactive in seeking information and exploring all available options.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served. Johnstown has a significant elderly population, a demographic at higher risk for prostate cancer. The healthcare system’s ability to address the specific needs of this population, including age-related considerations and the availability of geriatric specialists, is important. The prevalence of prostate cancer within the 15906 ZIP code would also inform the assessment. Public health data, if available, can provide insights into the incidence and mortality rates of prostate cancer within the community.

The assessment must also consider the financial aspects of care. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices, including Medicare and Medicaid, is critical. The availability of financial assistance programs for patients struggling to afford treatment, as well as the cost of medications and procedures, can significantly impact access to care. Transparency in pricing and billing practices is also a factor.

The conclusion of the ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ analysis would offer a summary of the findings, highlighting the key strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape within 15906. It would provide actionable recommendations for individuals seeking prostate cancer care, such as identifying the most qualified physicians, exploring telehealth options, and accessing mental health resources. It would emphasize the importance of proactive healthcare management, including regular screenings and open communication with healthcare providers.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare resources available in Johnstown, and to map the locations of doctors and primary care facilities, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome.