17578, Stevens, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17578, Stevens, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.74 percent of the residents in 17578 has some form of health insurance. 26.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.92 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 17578 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,440 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 24 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17578. An estimate of 251 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,021 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 20,567 health care providers accessible to residents in 17578, Stevens, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Stevens, PA (ZIP Code 17578)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of prostate cancer care within the 17578 ZIP code, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability and related healthcare resources. The goal is to assess the overall quality of care available to men in Stevens, Pennsylvania, considering factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and holistic patient well-being.

Stevens, PA, a primarily rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of primary care physicians, the cornerstone of preventative care, is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio in this area is a key indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a high ratio suggests greater accessibility and a more robust healthcare infrastructure. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio for 17578 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau should be consulted to determine the current landscape. This data will inform the overall score.

The quality of primary care extends beyond mere availability. It encompasses the practices and services offered by local physicians. Are PCPs actively screening for prostate cancer? Do they follow established guidelines from organizations like the American Urological Association (AUA) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)? Are they knowledgeable about the latest diagnostic tools, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and advanced imaging techniques like MRI? The practices of individual physicians, including their willingness to discuss risk factors, family history, and lifestyle modifications, directly impact patient outcomes. This analysis will consider the commitment to evidence-based practices.

Standout practices within the 17578 area deserve recognition. These practices may demonstrate excellence in specific areas, such as patient education, care coordination, or patient satisfaction. Identifying these practices requires investigation into their reputations, patient reviews, and the specific services they offer. Do they have dedicated staff focused on prostate cancer care? Do they participate in clinical trials or research? These factors contribute to the overall quality of care and will influence the scoring.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Does the primary care network in 17578 offer telemedicine options for consultations, follow-up appointments, or even remote monitoring? The availability of telemedicine can reduce the burden on patients and improve their ability to adhere to treatment plans. Its presence, or lack thereof, significantly impacts the overall score.

Beyond medical treatment, the mental health of prostate cancer patients is a critical consideration. A cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for holistic care. Are local primary care practices connected to mental health professionals? Do they offer referrals to support groups or other resources? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a significant indicator of a patient-centered approach. This aspect will be carefully evaluated.

The score will also consider the availability of specialists. While PCPs are the first point of contact, access to urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists is essential for comprehensive prostate cancer care. The proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the coordination between primary care and specialist providers are critical factors. Are there urologists or oncology specialists located within a reasonable distance of Stevens? Are there established referral pathways in place? These factors will be assessed.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of patient education materials. Are there resources available to help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects? Patient education empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their care and promotes better adherence to treatment plans. The presence of readily available, accessible, and understandable educational materials will be evaluated.

The overall 'Prostate Cancer Score' will be a composite metric, reflecting the combined impact of all the factors discussed above. Each factor will be weighted based on its importance in determining the quality of care. The final score will provide a clear indication of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in 17578. This score is not just a number; it represents the potential for early detection, effective treatment, and improved quality of life for men in Stevens facing a prostate cancer diagnosis.

The analysis will be a dynamic process. Healthcare landscapes evolve, and new information emerges. This initial assessment will serve as a baseline, and subsequent evaluations will be necessary to track changes and identify areas for improvement. The goal is to provide ongoing insights into the quality of prostate cancer care in Stevens, PA.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17578, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of geographic data, allowing for a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility and resource distribution. Explore the power of visual data and map your way to a better understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.