17502, Bainbridge, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17502, Bainbridge, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.89 percent of the residents in 17502 has some form of health insurance. 30.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.78 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 17502 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 522 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17502. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 381 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,082 health care providers accessible to residents in 17502, Bainbridge, Pennsylvania.

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning prostate cancer care, within a specific geographic area demands a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the landscape of medical professionals in ZIP Code 17502 (Bainbridge, Pennsylvania) and assess primary care availability, with a focus on prostate cancer-related factors. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients in this community.

The initial consideration is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians and specialists (specifically urologists) practicing within ZIP Code 17502 is crucial. This data, ideally sourced from reliable databases like the American Medical Association or state licensing boards, provides a baseline understanding of the potential burden on each physician. A low physician-to-patient ratio might indicate accessibility challenges, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Conversely, a higher ratio could suggest greater availability and potentially improved access to preventative screenings and treatment.

Beyond raw numbers, the composition of the medical workforce matters. The presence of board-certified urologists is particularly significant. These specialists possess the advanced training and experience necessary for diagnosing and treating prostate cancer. The availability of medical oncologists, who often collaborate in the treatment of advanced stages of the disease, is also a key factor. Access to radiation oncologists, who utilize radiation therapy, further enhances the comprehensive care available. The presence of these specialists within or in close proximity to ZIP Code 17502 is vital for ensuring patients receive the full spectrum of care.

Identifying standout practices within the area is important. This requires examining several factors. Patient reviews, available through online platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, provide insights into patient experiences, including satisfaction with communication, wait times, and the overall quality of care. The practices’ adoption of advanced technologies is another critical element. Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient information and facilitate coordination of care? Are they equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, such as advanced imaging techniques (MRI, PET scans)? Do they offer minimally invasive surgical options? These factors can significantly influence the quality of care provided.

The integration of telemedicine into healthcare delivery is transforming patient access, especially in rural areas. Assessing the telemedicine adoption rate among practices in 17502 is vital. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments or initial consultations? Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for prostate cancer patients, allowing them to receive care and advice from specialists without having to travel long distances. This is especially important for patients who may experience mobility limitations or live far from major medical centers.

Mental health resources are a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant emotional impact on patients. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the community is therefore essential. Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, or therapists practicing in the area? Do the primary care practices or urology practices have mental health professionals on staff or offer referrals to mental health services? Support groups and counseling services specifically for cancer patients and their families can provide invaluable emotional support and coping mechanisms.

Prostate cancer screening guidelines and adherence to them are another key indicator of quality care. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Urological Association (AUA) provide recommendations on prostate cancer screening, including when to begin screening and how often. Assessing whether the primary care physicians and urologists in 17502 adhere to these guidelines is important. This involves examining their practices regarding prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams (DREs). Adherence to screening guidelines can lead to early detection and improved outcomes.

The accessibility of cancer treatment facilities is a crucial factor. While ZIP Code 17502 might not have a major cancer center within its boundaries, the proximity to such facilities is essential. Assessing the travel time to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, hospitals with radiation therapy capabilities, and surgical centers is important. This information provides insight into the patient's ability to access necessary treatments, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

Financial considerations also play a role in patient access to care. Assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans by the practices in 17502 is important. Do they accept Medicare, Medicaid, and a range of private insurance plans? The affordability of care, including co-pays, deductibles, and the cost of medications, can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate treatment.

The availability of patient education resources is another important element. Do the practices provide educational materials about prostate cancer, including information about screening, diagnosis, treatment options, and side effects? Do they offer support groups or connect patients with community resources? Patient education empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and treatment.

Finally, the overall quality of care in 17502 can be assessed by examining cancer survival rates, where available. While it is difficult to obtain specific survival rates for a particular ZIP Code, data from larger geographical areas, such as the county or state, can provide some insight. Analyzing these rates, along with the other factors discussed, can provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape for prostate cancer patients in the area.

Understanding the complex interplay of these factors is vital for assessing the healthcare environment in Bainbridge. The availability of physicians, the quality of the practices, the adoption of technology, the presence of mental health resources, and the adherence to screening guidelines all contribute to the overall quality of care.

To visualize the complex data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17502, explore the power of geospatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of physician locations, facility locations, and other relevant data points.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bainbridge and the surrounding areas, visit CartoChrome maps.