15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15937 has some form of health insurance. 47.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.99 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 15937 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15937. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 135 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,830 health care providers accessible to residents in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Jerome, PA (ZIP Code 15937)

Analyzing the prostate cancer care landscape within Jerome, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15937) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the availability of specialists but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. This analysis will attempt to create a "Prostate Cancer Score" for the area, providing a general assessment of the quality and accessibility of care for individuals facing this diagnosis. This score is not an official rating, but rather a composite based on available data and expert assumptions.

The foundation of any prostate cancer care plan is a strong primary care network. In Jerome, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial. A low physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code suggests potential challenges. If the number of PCPs is limited relative to the population, patients may experience longer wait times for appointments, hindering timely screenings and referrals. This is especially concerning for prostate cancer, where early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Examining the patient load of existing practices is vital. Are the PCPs overwhelmed? Are they able to dedicate sufficient time to patient education and preventative care, including prostate cancer screening recommendations?

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Does the practice actively promote prostate cancer screening guidelines, such as the PSA test and digital rectal exam? Are PCPs knowledgeable about the latest treatment options and able to effectively communicate these to patients? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and oncologists? A strong primary care foundation is the first pillar of a good Prostate Cancer Score.

The second pillar is the availability of specialists. The core of prostate cancer treatment involves urologists and oncologists. The presence of board-certified urologists within or immediately adjacent to the ZIP code is a positive indicator. Proximity to larger medical centers offering comprehensive oncology services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy, is also critical. Travel time to these specialists can significantly impact patient experience and adherence to treatment plans. A longer travel time would negatively affect the Prostate Cancer Score.

Within the specialist network, the reputation and experience of the physicians are paramount. Are there standout practices known for their expertise in prostate cancer treatment? Are they utilizing advanced technologies like robotic surgery or targeted therapies? Patient reviews and physician ratings can provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Furthermore, the adoption of multidisciplinary care, where urologists, oncologists, and other specialists collaborate on treatment plans, is a sign of a well-integrated healthcare system. This collaborative approach can lead to better outcomes and a more holistic approach to patient care.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in today's healthcare landscape, particularly for rural areas like Jerome. Telemedicine can enhance access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient convenience. The availability of virtual consultations with urologists, oncologists, and other healthcare providers can be a significant advantage. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients, allowing for proactive management of side effects and adjustments to treatment plans. The Prostate Cancer Score will be positively impacted by the degree of telemedicine integration within the local healthcare system.

Mental health support is often overlooked in cancer care, but it is essential for patient well-being. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive care. Does the local healthcare system offer integrated mental health services? Are there resources available to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of prostate cancer? The availability and accessibility of these resources will influence the Prostate Cancer Score.

The final factor in this analysis is the availability of patient education and support services. Are there educational materials available about prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment options? Are there patient navigators or support groups to help patients navigate the healthcare system and connect with resources? The presence of these resources can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and improve their overall quality of life.

Based on the information above, a hypothetical Prostate Cancer Score for Jerome, PA (ZIP code 15937) can be formulated. This score is a composite assessment, reflecting the interplay of the factors discussed.

* **Primary Care Availability and Quality:** This would be a significant factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio and limited access to PCPs with expertise in prostate cancer screening would negatively affect the score. The quality of the PCPs, their willingness to stay abreast of the latest treatments and their patient education skills are also important.

* **Specialist Availability and Expertise:** The presence of board-certified urologists and oncologists within a reasonable distance would be a positive factor. The reputation and experience of these specialists, along with the availability of advanced treatment options, would further enhance the score.

* **Telemedicine Adoption:** The degree of telemedicine integration would positively impact the score, particularly for virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

* **Mental Health Resources:** The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, would contribute to a higher score.

* **Patient Education and Support Services:** The presence of educational materials, patient navigators, and support groups would positively influence the score.

Considering these factors, a preliminary Prostate Cancer Score for Jerome, PA (ZIP code 15937) would likely be moderate, assuming a rural setting with potential limitations in specialist availability and mental health resources. The score could be improved by addressing the challenges in primary care, increasing the use of telemedicine, and expanding access to mental health support.

To gain a more precise understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jerome, PA, and to visualize the data discussed, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping tools offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's maps can help you visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, allowing you to conduct a more in-depth analysis of the prostate cancer care environment in your area.