16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.53 percent of the residents in 16140 has some form of health insurance. 21.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 94.55 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 16140 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 151 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16140. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 82 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,247 health care providers accessible to residents in 16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 16140 & New Bedford Primary Care

This analysis delves into the prostate cancer care landscape within ZIP Code 16140 (likely a specific area, for this exercise we’ll assume it's a hypothetical region) and examines primary care availability in New Bedford, Massachusetts, assessing factors relevant to prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. We'll use a hypothetical "Prostate Cancer Score" (PCS) as a framework, considering access to care, quality of providers, and supportive resources. The PCS isn't a standardized metric but rather a composite of key elements.

**ZIP Code 16140: A Hypothetical Landscape**

Evaluating prostate cancer care in a specific ZIP code requires granular data that isn't readily available without extensive research. However, we can construct a hypothetical scenario. Let's assume ZIP Code 16140 is a suburban area with a population of around 20,000 residents. The PCS here will heavily depend on the presence of specialists and the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs).

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. If the area boasts a high ratio of PCPs per 1,000 residents, it suggests better access to initial screenings and referrals. A low ratio, conversely, might indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis. The presence of urologists within the ZIP code or in close proximity is even more critical. If residents must travel significant distances for specialist consultations, the PCS suffers.

Standout practices would be those demonstrating a commitment to early detection and advanced treatment options. This includes offering state-of-the-art diagnostic tools like advanced imaging (MRI, PET scans) and embracing minimally invasive surgical techniques. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies, would also score highly. Furthermore, the adoption of patient-centered care models, such as shared decision-making and personalized treatment plans, elevates a practice's standing.

Telemedicine adoption can significantly improve the PCS, especially in areas with limited specialist access. Virtual consultations allow patients to connect with urologists and other specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating timely advice. Practices that offer remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment also contribute positively to the score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital. A prostate cancer diagnosis can profoundly impact a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of on-site or readily accessible mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services significantly boosts the PCS. Practices that proactively screen for and address mental health concerns demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

**Primary Care Availability in New Bedford**

New Bedford, a city with a population exceeding 90,000, presents a different set of challenges and opportunities. The PCS here will be influenced by broader systemic factors, including socioeconomic demographics and healthcare infrastructure.

Primary care availability in New Bedford is a critical determinant of the city's PCS. A robust primary care network serves as the gateway to early detection. Easy access to PCPs facilitates regular check-ups, including prostate cancer screenings. A low PCP-to-patient ratio, coupled with long wait times for appointments, would negatively impact the score.

The quality of primary care practices is equally important. Practices that prioritize preventive care, offer comprehensive services, and have a strong referral network to specialists contribute positively to the PCS. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals streamlines communication and improves care coordination, which is also a plus.

Standout practices in New Bedford would be those that prioritize patient education and outreach. This includes providing educational materials about prostate cancer, promoting screening guidelines, and actively engaging with the community to raise awareness. Practices that cater to diverse populations, offering culturally sensitive care and language services, would also be highly valued.

Telemedicine's role in New Bedford is significant. It can address geographical barriers and enhance access to care for underserved populations. Primary care practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals improve the PCS.

Mental health resources are paramount in New Bedford. The city's socioeconomic profile may contribute to higher rates of stress and mental health challenges. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through strong referral networks, significantly improve the PCS. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and mental health professionals who specialize in cancer-related issues is crucial.

**Comparing the Two Scenarios**

Comparing the hypothetical ZIP Code 16140 and New Bedford scenarios highlights the importance of context. While the suburban ZIP code might benefit from a higher concentration of specialists, New Bedford's PCS could be improved by strengthening its primary care infrastructure and addressing the broader social determinants of health. Both locations benefit from telemedicine and robust mental health support.

**Concluding Thoughts**

Evaluating prostate cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. The "Prostate Cancer Score" is a useful framework for assessing access, quality, and support services. The specific needs of each community vary, but the core principles remain the same: early detection, access to qualified specialists, patient-centered care, and comprehensive support.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area, including physician locations, practice specializations, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome.