16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16727 has some form of health insurance. 9.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.34 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 16727 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 91 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16727. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 397 health care providers accessible to residents in 16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Derrick City, PA (ZIP Code 16727)**

This analysis provides an assessment of the prostate cancer care landscape within Derrick City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16727), focusing on primary care availability and the potential quality of care for individuals seeking prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This evaluation considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive approach to prostate cancer management. The goal is to offer a nuanced perspective, acknowledging the unique characteristics of a rural community while identifying potential areas for improvement and highlighting strengths.

Derrick City, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas, including limited access to specialized medical care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) forms the cornerstone of prostate cancer screening and early detection. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a smaller number of PCPs serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed screenings. While precise physician-to-patient ratios require access to current demographic and medical provider data, it is reasonable to assume that Derrick City might experience a ratio less favorable than more urbanized areas. This could necessitate residents traveling to larger towns or cities for specialized care, adding to the burden of healthcare access.

The presence of standout medical practices is critical. These practices may be characterized by their commitment to preventative care, including regular prostate cancer screenings, patient education, and a proactive approach to managing risk factors. Evaluating the reputation of local practices through patient reviews, online ratings, and physician referrals can offer insights into their quality of care. Practices that utilize evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening, such as the American Urological Association (AUA) recommendations, are particularly important. These guidelines help ensure that screening decisions are individualized and based on factors such as age, family history, and race.

Telemedicine adoption presents both an opportunity and a challenge in Derrick City. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires reliable internet connectivity, patient access to technology, and physician comfort with virtual consultations. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local PCPs and specialists is a key indicator of their commitment to expanding access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and integrated them seamlessly into their workflow are better positioned to serve patients, especially those in remote areas.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are an essential part of prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, who are familiar with the unique challenges faced by prostate cancer patients is crucial. These professionals can provide support, counseling, and, if needed, medication management. Assessing the availability of mental health services, including the presence of support groups, is an important component of a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare landscape in Derrick City.

The quality of prostate cancer care also extends beyond the availability of medical services. Patient education plays a vital role. Practices that offer educational materials, workshops, or one-on-one counseling sessions to help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects are more likely to foster patient empowerment and improve outcomes. This includes providing information about the different types of prostate cancer, the various treatment modalities (surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy), and the potential side effects associated with each.

Furthermore, the coordination of care between PCPs, urologists, oncologists, and other specialists is essential. A well-coordinated healthcare system ensures that patients receive timely and appropriate care, avoids unnecessary duplication of tests, and facilitates effective communication between providers. Evaluating the extent to which local practices collaborate with specialists and other healthcare providers is an important factor in assessing the overall quality of care. This can be assessed through the use of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for easy sharing of patient information and through established referral pathways.

The presence of local hospitals or medical centers offering advanced diagnostic and treatment options is another critical factor. Access to advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, is essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer. The availability of specialized treatment options, such as robotic-assisted surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, is also important. The proximity of these facilities and the ability of patients to access them easily can significantly impact their care experience.

In summary, the prostate cancer care landscape in Derrick City, PA (ZIP Code 16727) likely presents a mixed picture. While the community may face challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialized care, the presence of dedicated primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can mitigate these challenges. A thorough assessment of local practices, their adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and their commitment to patient education is crucial for determining the overall quality of care.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare resources available in Derrick City and surrounding areas, including the location of medical practices, hospitals, and specialists, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a visual representation of healthcare infrastructure, allowing you to analyze the geographic distribution of providers and assess the accessibility of care.