17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.18 percent of the residents in 17094 has some form of health insurance. 39.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.37 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 17094 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 651 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17094. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 566 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,550 health care providers accessible to residents in 17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17094 and Primary Care in Thompsontown**

This analysis provides an assessment of prostate cancer care resources, focusing on physicians within ZIP code 17094 (which encompasses Thompsontown, PA) and the availability of primary care services in Thompsontown. The goal is to evaluate the landscape of healthcare accessibility and quality concerning prostate cancer detection and management. The assessment considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive approach to patient care.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on the availability of qualified medical professionals. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios provides an initial understanding of access. In Thompsontown and the surrounding areas within 17094, the number of urologists and primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer patient outcomes. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from medical directories and insurance provider networks, will be used to calculate these ratios. This data is vital for understanding the immediate accessibility of care.

Identifying standout practices is essential. This involves evaluating the quality of care provided by different medical groups and individual physicians. Key indicators include the adoption of evidence-based practices, patient satisfaction scores, and the utilization of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in these areas are considered standout practices. This assessment will involve reviewing publicly available information, such as patient reviews, accreditation status, and physician profiles. We will look for practices that offer comprehensive prostate cancer screening programs, including PSA testing, digital rectal exams, and access to advanced imaging techniques such as MRI and ultrasound.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Thompsontown. Telemedicine can facilitate initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among physicians in 17094 will involve checking practice websites, contacting offices directly, and reviewing insurance coverage policies. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, which is particularly important for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

The connection between physical and mental health is undeniable. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. This analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare ecosystem, including access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors. We will also examine whether local practices offer support groups or counseling services specifically tailored to prostate cancer patients and their families. Integrated care, where mental health services are readily accessible within the same healthcare system, is considered ideal.

Evaluating the overall healthcare landscape requires a multifaceted approach. We will consider the presence of local hospitals, specialty clinics, and cancer centers that provide comprehensive prostate cancer care. The availability of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical services within a reasonable distance is essential. Access to clinical trials and research opportunities is also a factor, as it can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. The analysis will consider the proximity of these resources to the residents of Thompsontown and the surrounding areas.

The quality of care also hinges on the adoption of advanced technologies. This includes the use of minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as robotic-assisted prostatectomy, which can lead to faster recovery times and reduced side effects. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI-guided biopsies, can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and staging. Practices that invest in these technologies are often better equipped to provide high-quality care. The analysis will assess the presence of these technologies within the local healthcare system.

The role of primary care physicians (PCPs) in prostate cancer screening and early detection is paramount. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients and play a vital role in educating patients about the importance of screening and referring them to specialists when necessary. This analysis will evaluate the availability of PCPs in Thompsontown and the surrounding areas, as well as their awareness of current prostate cancer screening guidelines. We will consider the referral patterns of PCPs and their collaboration with urologists and other specialists.

The economic factors influencing healthcare access also need consideration. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers, including Medicare and Medicaid, will be assessed. The cost of care, including the cost of screening tests, treatments, and medications, will also be considered. The analysis will consider the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may struggle to afford care.

The analysis will also consider the patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the communication between physicians and patients. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and provide clear and concise communication are often more successful in delivering high-quality care. We will review patient testimonials and online reviews to gain insights into the patient experience.

The final Prostate Cancer Score will be a composite score, reflecting all of the factors discussed above. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, providing a comprehensive overview of the prostate cancer care landscape in ZIP code 17094 and the availability of primary care in Thompsontown. The score will be a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Thompsontown and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed view of the healthcare infrastructure, helping you to better understand the accessibility of care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.