17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.82 percent of the residents in 17238 has some form of health insurance. 36.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.20 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 17238 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 374 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17238. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 394 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 528 health care providers accessible to residents in 17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on prostate cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 17238, encompassing Needmore, Pennsylvania. It considers the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), a crucial entry point for early detection and management of prostate cancer, and examines the resources available for patients navigating the complexities of this disease. The goal is to provide an informative overview, not a definitive ranking.

Needmore, Pennsylvania, a small rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians forms the cornerstone of this analysis. A low physician-to-patient ratio can significantly impact the ability of individuals to receive timely screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing care for prostate cancer. This analysis will consider the density of PCPs within and immediately surrounding the 17238 ZIP code, factoring in the potential impact of travel distances to access care.

Standout practices are identified by assessing their commitment to prostate cancer screening and management. These practices are likely to have a well-defined process for PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing, digital rectal exams, and referrals to urologists when necessary. The analysis will consider the availability of educational materials for patients, the use of patient portals for communication and test results, and the overall patient experience. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs related to men's health will also be given positive consideration.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in expanding access to care, especially in rural areas like Needmore. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which local practices offer telehealth appointments for consultations, follow-up visits, and medication management. Telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel, improve patient convenience, and facilitate earlier access to specialists. The availability of telehealth services for mental health support, a critical component of cancer care, will be a key consideration.

Mental health resources are integral to prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, treatment, and its side effects can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. The analysis will explore the availability of mental health professionals within the community, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. The accessibility of these resources, considering insurance coverage and wait times, is a critical factor. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and educational programs specifically tailored to prostate cancer patients will be evaluated.

The analysis will attempt to identify the practices that offer comprehensive care, addressing not only the physical aspects of prostate cancer but also the emotional and psychological needs of patients. Practices that collaborate with support organizations and provide referrals to specialized resources will be given a higher score. The focus will be on the patient-centered approach, ensuring that individuals receive holistic care throughout their journey.

The analysis will consider the availability of specialized prostate cancer treatment options within a reasonable distance of Needmore. This includes access to radiation therapy, brachytherapy, and surgical interventions. The proximity to hospitals with advanced imaging capabilities, such as MRI and PET scans, is also a significant factor. Practices that facilitate seamless referrals to these specialized services will be viewed favorably.

The quality of care is also assessed by considering the use of evidence-based guidelines and best practices in prostate cancer management. This includes adherence to screening recommendations, timely diagnosis, and appropriate treatment strategies. The analysis will examine the practices' commitment to continuous quality improvement, including participation in clinical trials and the use of data to monitor patient outcomes.

The availability of financial assistance programs and resources for patients is another important aspect of the analysis. Prostate cancer treatment can be expensive, and patients may face financial challenges. The analysis will consider the practices' awareness of and ability to connect patients with financial assistance programs, such as those offered by pharmaceutical companies or cancer support organizations.

The analysis will also take into account the patient's perspective. This includes the ease of scheduling appointments, the waiting times in the office, the availability of clear and understandable information, and the overall communication between the patient and the healthcare team. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and provide a supportive environment will be recognized.

The analysis will consider the role of community partnerships in improving prostate cancer care. This includes collaborations with local organizations, such as cancer support groups, senior centers, and community health centers. Practices that actively engage in community outreach and education programs will be given positive consideration.

The analysis will consider the impact of healthcare disparities on prostate cancer outcomes. Prostate cancer disproportionately affects certain racial and ethnic groups. The analysis will evaluate the practices' efforts to address these disparities and ensure equitable access to care for all patients.

The analysis, therefore, will not provide a definitive ranking. It will instead offer a comprehensive overview of the resources available to prostate cancer patients in and around Needmore (17238), highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. It aims to provide valuable insights for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Needmore and surrounding areas, including the locations of medical practices, hospitals, and support services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a spatial context to the information discussed in this analysis, helping you to visualize the accessibility of care and identify potential resources.