16229, Freeport, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16229, Freeport, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.52 percent of the residents in 16229 has some form of health insurance. 35.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.68 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 16229 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,298 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16229. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,030 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 776 health care providers accessible to residents in 16229, Freeport, Pennsylvania.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Freeport, PA (ZIP Code 16229)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Freeport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16229) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on factors crucial for prostate cancer care, including physician availability, primary care access, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The core of prostate cancer care revolves around the expertise of urologists. Determining the number of urologists practicing within ZIP Code 16229 is the first step. However, it is critical to understand the catchment area of these specialists. Patients may travel outside the immediate ZIP code for specialized care. Therefore, the analysis must extend to the broader region, assessing the urologist-to-patient ratio within a reasonable driving distance. This ratio provides a critical metric for gauging access. A low ratio, indicating fewer urologists per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment.

Beyond urologists, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is vital. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. They play a crucial role in screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. Assessing the PCP-to-patient ratio in Freeport is essential. A shortage of PCPs can strain the healthcare system, making it difficult for patients to access timely care. Furthermore, the analysis must consider the types of PCPs available, including family medicine doctors and internal medicine specialists, as each may have different areas of expertise.

Primary care availability is also affected by factors like insurance acceptance, office hours, and the presence of walk-in clinics. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is a significant factor. Patients with limited insurance options may face barriers to accessing care. Office hours and the availability of evening or weekend appointments are also critical. Patients with demanding work schedules may find it challenging to schedule appointments during standard business hours. The presence of walk-in clinics can improve access, especially for urgent but non-emergency needs.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a key indicator of accessibility. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel time, and provide convenient follow-up appointments. The analysis must evaluate the extent to which local urologists and PCPs offer telemedicine services, including the types of services available (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring). The ease of use of these telemedicine platforms, including technical support and patient training, is also a critical factor.

The psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health services within the Freeport area. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists. The integration of mental health services into the local healthcare system is essential. This may involve partnerships between urology practices, primary care clinics, and mental health providers. The availability of support groups and counseling services specifically for prostate cancer patients and their families is also a critical factor.

Standout practices within the Freeport area may be recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care, innovative treatment approaches, or exceptional patient outcomes. Identifying these practices requires a review of patient reviews, accreditations, and awards. The analysis should highlight practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, comprehensive treatment options, and patient education. The use of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and genomic testing, should also be considered.

The quality of care is not just about the availability of physicians and resources; it is also about the coordination of care. Effective communication between urologists, PCPs, and other specialists is essential for providing seamless and coordinated care. The analysis must evaluate the extent to which local practices use electronic health records (EHRs) and other technologies to facilitate communication and care coordination. The use of patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records and communicate with their healthcare providers, is also a critical factor.

The analysis must also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the local healthcare system. Factors such as age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence access to care and health outcomes. The analysis should consider the prevalence of prostate cancer within the local population and the specific needs of different patient groups. This includes addressing health disparities and ensuring that all patients have access to high-quality care, regardless of their background.

The analysis should also consider the involvement of local hospitals and healthcare systems. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated urology department can significantly improve access to specialized care. The analysis should assess the hospital's capabilities, including its surgical facilities, radiation therapy services, and support services. The hospital's commitment to research and clinical trials can also be a positive indicator.

The analysis should also consider the availability of support services for prostate cancer patients. This includes patient education materials, support groups, and resources for navigating the healthcare system. The analysis should assess the extent to which local practices provide these services and the quality of the information provided. The availability of financial assistance programs for patients who cannot afford treatment is also a critical factor.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in Freeport, PA, requires a comprehensive assessment of physician availability, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the quality of care provided. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. Further investigation and data collection are needed to provide a complete picture of the healthcare environment in the area.

To gain a deeper understanding of the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and patient populations in Freeport and surrounding areas, consider utilizing the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visualize physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant data, providing valuable insights for healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers.