The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16235, Lucinda, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 98.64 percent of the residents in 16235 has some form of health insurance. 28.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.07 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 16235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 308 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16235. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 233 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 454 health care providers accessible to residents in 16235, Lucinda, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 16235, Lucinda, Pennsylvania
Prostate Cancer Score | 95 |
---|---|
People Score | 86 |
Provider Score | 81 |
Hospital Score | 58 |
Travel Score | 55 |
16235 | Lucinda | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Lucinda, PA (ZIP Code 16235)
This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 16235 (Lucinda, PA), focusing on primary care physician availability, quality indicators, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to men in this community for prostate health management, from initial screening to ongoing care.
The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in accessible and quality primary care. This is where early detection, risk assessment, and referrals to specialists originate. Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a critical metric. In a rural area like Lucinda, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is often a challenge. The national average physician-to-population ratio is approximately 1:390. A significantly higher ratio in 16235 would indicate a potential shortage, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau will be crucial to determine the actual ratio within this specific ZIP code.
Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by PCPs is paramount. This involves factors like the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening, including recommendations from the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Do the local PCPs routinely discuss the risks and benefits of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing with their patients? Do they offer digital rectal exams as part of a comprehensive assessment? These are essential components of proactive prostate health management.
Identifying standout practices within the Lucinda area requires a deeper dive. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing the qualifications and experience of the physicians, and evaluating the practices’ technological infrastructure. Practices that have embraced electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals often demonstrate a commitment to efficiency and improved patient communication. Practices with a strong track record of preventative care, including regular prostate cancer screenings and patient education, would also score favorably.
Telemedicine adoption is another key consideration. In a rural setting, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, expanding access to specialists and enhancing the continuity of care. Does Lucinda have PCPs who offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments or for discussing test results? The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty traveling to a specialist's office. Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms can score higher in this analysis.
Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact on patients and their families. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Are local PCPs equipped to screen for mental health concerns? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health providers in the area? The availability and accessibility of these resources are vital for patient well-being.
The proximity to specialized care is also a crucial factor. While primary care is the cornerstone, patients often require the expertise of urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of prostate cancer. The distance to the nearest hospitals with these specialists and the availability of advanced treatment options (e.g., robotic surgery, radiation therapy) will influence the overall score. Access to support groups and patient advocacy organizations can further enhance the patient experience.
Analyzing the insurance landscape is also important. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers will impact access to care. Are the PCPs in Lucinda accepting Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans commonly used by residents? This factor ensures that patients can receive the care they need without financial barriers.
Furthermore, a thorough analysis should consider the availability of educational resources. Do local PCPs provide patients with educational materials about prostate cancer, including information on risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options? Are there community outreach programs that raise awareness about prostate health? Practices that prioritize patient education can score higher.
This Prostate Cancer Score analysis would also consider the use of data analytics. Analyzing historical data on prostate cancer incidence, mortality rates, and screening rates within 16235, compared to state and national averages, can reveal potential disparities and areas for improvement. This data can inform targeted interventions to address any identified gaps in care.
The final score, therefore, is a composite of these various factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of the prostate cancer care landscape in Lucinda. It considers the availability of PCPs, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, access to specialists, the insurance landscape, the availability of educational resources, and the use of data analytics.
To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lucinda, including the location of PCPs, specialists, and hospitals, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear and interactive visualization of the data, allowing you to see the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care. This visual representation can be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.
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