17257, Shippensburg, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17257, Shippensburg, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.29 percent of the residents in 17257 has some form of health insurance. 31.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.22 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 17257 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,985 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17257. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,927 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,908 health care providers accessible to residents in 17257, Shippensburg, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 17257, encompassing the Shippensburg area, demands a multifaceted approach. It necessitates evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), as they serve as the initial point of contact for men experiencing potential prostate cancer symptoms. This assessment must also consider the broader healthcare landscape, including specialist access, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support, all crucial for a patient's holistic well-being.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer insights into the general physician supply within Franklin County, where Shippensburg is located. This data should be cross-referenced with local hospital affiliations and practice listings to gain a more granular understanding of PCP distribution specifically within 17257.

Primary care availability in Shippensburg is pivotal. The presence of well-established primary care practices, ideally with a diverse range of physicians (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine), is essential. These practices should be evaluated based on several factors. First, the size of the practice and the number of physicians employed. Second, the scope of services offered. Do they provide comprehensive care, including routine check-ups, screening for prostate cancer (e.g., PSA tests), and referrals to specialists when necessary? Third, the practice's acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, to ensure accessibility for a broad population.

Identifying standout practices involves delving deeper. This requires looking beyond basic metrics and examining patient reviews, online ratings, and any available information about the physicians' specializations and experience. Are there any practices with a particular focus on men's health? Are there any physicians known for their expertise in prostate cancer screening and early detection? Furthermore, it's crucial to consider the practice's integration with the broader healthcare system. Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and oncologists? Do they collaborate effectively with local hospitals, such as Chambersburg Hospital or other facilities in the region?

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing initial consultations. The availability of telemedicine services within primary care practices and specialist offices in 17257 can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in more rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine options should be highlighted. This includes evaluating the ease of use of their telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered remotely, and the overall patient experience.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for men diagnosed with prostate cancer. The emotional and psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis can be profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health support services within the community is essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Does the local healthcare system offer integrated mental health services? Do primary care practices have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Are there any cancer support organizations operating in the area, such as the American Cancer Society or local chapters, that provide counseling or support groups?

The evaluation of prostate cancer care in 17257 should also consider the availability of specialist care. The presence of urologists and oncologists in the area is crucial for providing timely diagnosis and treatment. This includes assessing the number of specialists, their experience, their affiliations with local hospitals, and their access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as MRI, radiation therapy, and surgical options.

Furthermore, it's important to consider the overall healthcare infrastructure. The quality of local hospitals, the availability of diagnostic imaging services, and the presence of cancer centers all contribute to the quality of care. Are there any hospitals or cancer centers in the region that have a reputation for excellence in prostate cancer treatment? Do they offer comprehensive cancer care, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and clinical trials?

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in Shippensburg (17257) requires a comprehensive analysis of several factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. The goal is to identify strengths and weaknesses in the system and to provide patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care.