17361, Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17361, Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.18 percent of the residents in 17361 has some form of health insurance. 34.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.61 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 17361 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,259 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17361. An estimate of 54 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,777 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 15,729 health care providers accessible to residents in 17361, Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Shrewsbury, PA (ZIP Code 17361)

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17361), evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, assessing the quality of care, and exploring related resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for men in this community, particularly concerning prostate health. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, and assess the adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health support, all crucial components of comprehensive prostate cancer care.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in accessible and responsive primary care. In Shrewsbury, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a determining factor. A higher ratio of patients per PCP can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and consultations. Conversely, a lower ratio typically suggests greater accessibility, allowing for proactive preventative care and early detection of prostate cancer. The specific ratio in 17361 requires investigation; however, the general trend in rural areas often presents a challenge.

Assessing the quality of care necessitates looking beyond raw numbers. We must consider the practices of local providers. Do they adhere to established guidelines for prostate cancer screening, including the use of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) tests and digital rectal exams? Are they proactive in discussing risk factors, such as family history and age, with their patients? Are they prompt in referring patients to urologists for further evaluation when necessary? Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their commitment to these best practices. This includes reviewing patient testimonials, assessing their use of advanced diagnostic tools, and examining their success rates in early detection and treatment. This information, unfortunately, requires a deep dive that is not readily available.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare. Telemedicine offers several advantages, particularly for patients in rural areas like Shrewsbury. It can reduce travel time and costs, making it easier for patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources. The availability of telemedicine options for prostate cancer care, including consultations with urologists and access to support groups, can significantly improve patient outcomes. A practice that embraces telemedicine demonstrates a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health resources is essential for comprehensive 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 support, either within primary care practices or through referrals to specialists, is critical. This support can include individual therapy, group therapy, and access to support groups specifically designed for men dealing with prostate cancer. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide these resources are better equipped to support their patients holistically.

The evaluation of these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – allows for a more comprehensive assessment of the prostate cancer care landscape in Shrewsbury. While a definitive "Prostate Cancer Score" requires detailed data collection and analysis, we can identify key areas for improvement and highlight the strengths of the local healthcare system.

The primary care landscape in Shrewsbury is the initial point of contact for patients. The availability and accessibility of PCPs, and their willingness to engage in preventative care and screening, are paramount. The practices that stand out are those that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive screening services, and provide timely referrals to specialists when necessary.

The role of specialists, particularly urologists, is equally critical. Access to skilled urologists who are experienced in diagnosing and treating prostate cancer is a determining factor. The proximity of urology practices, their specialization in prostate cancer, and their utilization of advanced treatment options are all important considerations.

The utilization of technology plays a significant role in improving care. Telemedicine enables remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to educational resources. This is especially beneficial for patients who may have mobility limitations or live in areas with limited access to specialists.

The availability of mental health support is an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can be emotionally taxing, and patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer mental health services or have established referral networks demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care.

In conclusion, the prostate cancer care environment in Shrewsbury, PA, is a complex interplay of various factors. While a definitive score is not possible with the current information, the analysis reveals key areas of focus: the accessibility of primary care, the quality of practice, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. These factors, when considered together, provide a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape for men in this community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare resources in Shrewsbury, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.