16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.31 percent of the residents in 16426 has some form of health insurance. 43.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.83 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 16426 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 596 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16426. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 844 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 635 health care providers accessible to residents in 16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in 16426 & Primary Care in McKean County

Evaluating the landscape of prostate cancer care within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of care for individuals in ZIP code 16426, with a broader consideration of primary care access across McKean County, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement. The analysis will assess factors impacting prostate cancer care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer management is access to qualified medical professionals. In 16426, a rural ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a critical factor. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and limited specialist availability. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from the American Medical Association, would be essential to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians, urologists, and oncologists serving this area. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could signal a significant barrier to timely diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of available medical practices is paramount. Identifying “standout practices” involves evaluating several criteria. This includes the experience and qualifications of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like MRI and PET scans, and the range of treatment options offered, from active surveillance to surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapies. Patient reviews, publicly available data on quality metrics, and the presence of accreditations from recognized medical organizations (e.g., the American College of Surgeons) can help differentiate practices. A practice with a multidisciplinary team, including urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, would be particularly advantageous for comprehensive prostate cancer care.

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical gaps and improve access to care in rural areas. The adoption rate of telemedicine within 16426 and McKean County is a crucial factor. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly enhance patient convenience and access to specialists who may not be physically located nearby. Analyzing the prevalence of telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., initial consultations, follow-up appointments), and patient satisfaction with these services provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of telemedicine in this context.

The emotional toll of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be substantial. The integration of mental health resources into the care pathway is crucial. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology is essential. Does the medical community collaborate with mental health providers? Are there support groups or counseling services specifically tailored to the needs of prostate cancer patients and their families? These resources can play a vital role in managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges associated with the disease.

Primary care availability across McKean County also significantly impacts prostate cancer care. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Their ability to recognize potential signs of prostate cancer, order appropriate screening tests (e.g., PSA tests), and refer patients to specialists is critical for early detection and improved outcomes. Assessing the distribution of primary care practices throughout the county, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, and the integration of preventative care programs related to prostate health are all important considerations.

To further refine this analysis, data on insurance coverage within the 16426 ZIP code and McKean County is essential. The prevalence of Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans impacts access to care. Understanding the acceptance of different insurance plans by local medical practices can help identify potential barriers to treatment.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for doctors in 16426 and primary care in McKean County would be a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed above. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of primary care services. This score would offer a snapshot of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to prostate cancer care.

To improve the accuracy and completeness of this analysis, a thorough investigation of the following data sources is needed: the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, local hospital websites, patient reviews, and information from cancer support organizations.

This analysis suggests that 16426, being a rural area, may face challenges related to physician access. The quality of available medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services are all critical factors in determining the overall quality of care. Primary care access across McKean County is also a key consideration, as primary care physicians play a vital role in early detection and referral.

Ultimately, a comprehensive assessment of the prostate cancer care landscape in this region is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that patients receive the best possible care. Visualizing this data, including physician locations, practice details, and access to resources, using geographic information system (GIS) mapping can provide valuable insights.

**For a detailed, interactive map of physician locations, practice data, and resource availability in 16426 and McKean County, explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps. Gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape and empower yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your health.**