17344, Mc Sherrystown, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17344, Mc Sherrystown, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.97 percent of the residents in 17344 has some form of health insurance. 29.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.23 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 17344 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 937 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17344. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 732 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 17344, Mc Sherrystown, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: McSherrystown, PA (ZIP Code 17344)

This analysis assesses the landscape of prostate cancer care within McSherrystown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17344), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, and the adoption of innovative healthcare practices. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the resources available to men in this community for the early detection, diagnosis, and management of prostate cancer. This analysis is not a definitive ranking but rather an informed assessment based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on strong primary care. Early detection often begins with a primary care physician (PCP) who can perform initial screenings, such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exam (DRE), and make appropriate referrals to specialists. The availability of PCPs in McSherrystown is therefore a critical factor. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau suggest a moderate level of primary care availability in the area. The physician-to-patient ratio, a key metric, is likely within the state average, but may be strained due to the aging population in the region and potential for limited access to specialists.

Several practices in and around the 17344 ZIP code likely contribute to the primary care landscape. The presence of larger healthcare systems, such as WellSpan Health, operating in the broader region, offers a network of providers and resources. These systems often provide a broader range of services, including specialized care. Smaller, independent practices also contribute to the overall availability of care. Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into factors like patient reviews, the adoption of technology, and the breadth of services offered. It is important to note that this assessment is based on publicly available information and does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement of any specific provider.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant in healthcare, particularly for rural and underserved communities. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, facilitate follow-up appointments, and provide remote monitoring of patients. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in McSherrystown is an important indicator of access to care. While the specific data on telemedicine adoption rates for this area is not readily available, the trend toward telehealth suggests that some providers are likely utilizing these technologies. This could involve virtual consultations, remote monitoring of PSA levels, and online patient portals for communication and information sharing.

Beyond the purely medical aspects, the availability of mental health resources is also important. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact on patients and their families. Access to counseling, support groups, and other mental health services can play a crucial role in managing the psychological effects of the disease. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is a positive development. This integration can improve access to mental healthcare, reduce stigma, and facilitate a more holistic approach to patient care. The availability of these services within the McSherrystown community, either directly through primary care practices or through referrals, is a key consideration.

The quality of prostate cancer care extends beyond access to physicians. The utilization of evidence-based guidelines, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, and the expertise of specialists all contribute to patient outcomes. The referral patterns of primary care physicians in the area are important. Do they refer patients to qualified urologists and oncologists for further evaluation and treatment? The presence of local urologists and oncologists, or the proximity to specialized cancer centers, is a significant advantage.

The financial aspects of healthcare are also important. The cost of care, including the cost of screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment, can be a barrier to access. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is a key factor. The availability of financial assistance programs and patient navigation services can also help patients manage the financial burden of cancer care.

The assessment of prostate cancer care in McSherrystown reveals a mixed picture. While primary care availability appears to be moderate, the physician-to-patient ratio may be a concern. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services are likely in progress, but further investigation is needed to determine the extent of these efforts. The presence of larger healthcare systems and the proximity to specialized cancer centers are positive factors.

Further research is needed to gain a more detailed understanding of the specific providers in the area. This could involve reviewing patient reviews, examining the services offered by individual practices, and assessing the referral patterns of primary care physicians. The availability of specific data on telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and financial assistance programs would provide a more complete picture.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in McSherrystown, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing the power of geospatial data. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, hospital proximity, and the distribution of healthcare services within the 17344 ZIP code and surrounding areas. This visual representation can help identify areas with limited access to care and inform healthcare planning efforts. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in McSherrystown and beyond.