16239, Marienville, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16239, Marienville, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 33.83 percent of the residents in 16239 has some form of health insurance. 24.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 21.15 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 16239 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 263 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16239. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 520 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7 health care providers accessible to residents in 16239, Marienville, Pennsylvania.

Prostate cancer is a serious health concern, and access to quality healthcare is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. This analysis delves into the prostate cancer care landscape within ZIP Code 16239 (Marienville, Pennsylvania) focusing on physician availability, practice quality, and resource accessibility.

The primary challenge in Marienville, and similar rural areas, is physician availability. The physician-to-patient ratio is likely a significant factor. While precise figures require specialized data analysis, it is highly probable that the number of primary care physicians and specialists, particularly urologists, is lower than the national average. This scarcity presents a major hurdle for timely screenings and consultations, which are critical in prostate cancer management. Patients might face longer wait times for appointments and potentially have to travel considerable distances to access specialized care.

The quality of care, even with limited resources, is another critical aspect. Assessing the performance of individual practices involves examining several factors. Data on screening rates, patient outcomes, and adherence to established guidelines (e.g., those from the American Urological Association) are essential indicators. Without specific practice-level data, it's difficult to definitively rank practices. However, we can hypothesize about the characteristics of a standout practice in this environment. A practice that prioritizes patient education, offers clear communication about screening recommendations, and has a strong referral network to specialists would likely be highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption can play a crucial role in overcoming geographical barriers. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, potentially reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialist expertise. The level of telemedicine adoption within Marienville is an important consideration. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are better positioned to serve their patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can create significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health support, such as counseling and support groups, is crucial for patients' well-being. The availability of these resources within Marienville, or the ability to access them remotely, is a significant factor in assessing the overall quality of care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient support.

Further investigation would require a deeper dive into specific practice details. For example, the presence of a practice with a dedicated nurse navigator could be a significant advantage. Nurse navigators guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, helping them navigate the healthcare system and access necessary resources. The existence of a local support group for prostate cancer patients and their families would also be a positive indicator.

The availability of diagnostic tools is also a key consideration. Access to advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, is critical for accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer. The proximity of these services to Marienville is an important factor. Patients may need to travel to larger medical centers for these procedures, adding to the burden of their care.

The analysis also considers the age and experience of the physicians. While newer physicians bring fresh perspectives and knowledge of the latest advancements, experienced physicians often have a deeper understanding of the complexities of prostate cancer and may have established relationships with other specialists. A balanced mix of experience and innovation is often ideal.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another factor to consider. EHRs allow for better communication between physicians, improved care coordination, and easier access to patient information. Practices that have fully implemented EHRs are often better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

The analysis also examines the availability of patient education materials. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise, and up-to-date information about prostate cancer, screening, treatment options, and side effects are better equipped to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

The overall assessment of prostate cancer care in Marienville is complex. The limited availability of physicians, particularly specialists, is a significant challenge. The quality of care likely varies depending on the individual practice and the resources available. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services are crucial factors in improving access and support. A comprehensive evaluation requires detailed data on physician-to-patient ratios, screening rates, patient outcomes, and the availability of diagnostic and treatment resources.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Marienville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can offer a valuable perspective on the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and help you gain a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities in prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 16239.