17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.89 percent of the residents in 17363 has some form of health insurance. 32.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.34 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 17363 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,692 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17363. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,721 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,776 health care providers accessible to residents in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below evaluates prostate cancer care and primary care access within ZIP code 17363 (Stewartstown, Pennsylvania). This assessment considers factors crucial to patient well-being, including physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and the availability of mental health support.

The core of effective prostate cancer care, and indeed overall health, hinges on access to primary care. In Stewartstown, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available sources (like the Health Resources & Services Administration – HRSA) and local health department reports can offer estimates. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) can indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. The current ratio needs careful examination to understand the true burden on the existing primary care infrastructure.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices in Stewartstown is paramount. Several factors contribute to this. Are practices accepting new patients? This is a basic but crucial element. Are they integrated with local hospitals or specialists for seamless referrals? Do they employ a patient-centered approach, fostering open communication and shared decision-making? Practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular screenings for prostate cancer (PSA tests, digital rectal exams), are highly desirable.

The adoption of telemedicine is another vital consideration. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Does the primary care infrastructure within 17363 embrace telemedicine? Are virtual appointments readily available? Do practices utilize patient portals for secure communication and access to medical records? The degree of telemedicine integration should be assessed to evaluate the overall score.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial element of this analysis. Are primary care practices connected with mental health professionals, either within their own organizations or through referral networks? Are there local therapists, counselors, or support groups available to patients and their families? Access to mental health support is not merely an add-on; it's an integral part of holistic care.

The lack of specific data on individual practices and physician-to-patient ratios prevents a definitive "Prostate Cancer Score" ranking. However, the assessment framework is established. The next step is to gather and analyze specific data to produce a more precise evaluation.

To provide a more specific analysis, the evaluation needs to be expanded. The investigation should include:

* **Detailed Physician Profiles:** Identify all primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code, along with their specialties, board certifications, and years of experience.
* **Practice Reviews:** Conduct a review of each practice, including its patient satisfaction scores (if available), accreditations, and any specialized services offered (e.g., men's health clinics).
* **Insurance Acceptance:** Determine which insurance plans are accepted by each practice, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance providers.
* **Technology Integration:** Assess the level of technology adoption, including electronic health records (EHRs), patient portals, and telemedicine capabilities.
* **Mental Health Partnerships:** Identify any partnerships with mental health professionals or organizations that provide support to patients.
* **Accessibility:** Evaluate the accessibility of practices, including hours of operation, appointment availability, and physical accessibility for patients with disabilities.

To assess the landscape of prostate cancer care, it is critical to investigate the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The proximity of these specialists to Stewartstown is a key factor. Are there urologists practicing in the immediate vicinity? If not, what is the travel time to the nearest specialists?

The quality of specialist care should also be evaluated. This includes the experience and expertise of the specialists, the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies (e.g., MRI, robotic surgery, radiation therapy), and the patient outcomes achieved.

The integration between primary care physicians and specialists is crucial for seamless care coordination. Are there established referral pathways? Do primary care physicians have strong relationships with local specialists? Does the healthcare system support effective communication and information sharing between providers?

Another factor to consider is the availability of support services. This includes patient education materials, support groups, and resources for managing side effects. Are there local organizations that provide support to prostate cancer patients and their families?

Finally, the cost of care is a significant consideration. This includes the cost of primary care visits, specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatment. Does the healthcare system offer affordable care options? Are there resources available to help patients manage the financial burden of prostate cancer?

This detailed investigation will enable a more accurate and useful assessment. The analysis should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Stewartstown, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize physician locations, practice locations, and the availability of support services. This can help you identify areas of strength and weakness in the healthcare system and make informed decisions about your health.