17584, Willow Street, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17584, Willow Street, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.93 percent of the residents in 17584 has some form of health insurance. 40.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.11 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 17584 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,437 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 24 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17584. An estimate of 296 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,979 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21,518 health care providers accessible to residents in 17584, Willow Street, Pennsylvania.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17584 & Primary Care in Willow Street**

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 17584, encompassing Willow Street, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial entry point for early detection and management, alongside the broader network of specialists. The goal is to provide a Prostate Cancer Score (PCS) assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support, all vital components of comprehensive patient care.

The foundation of any prostate cancer care strategy lies in robust primary care. In Willow Street, access to primary care physicians (PCPs) is a key indicator. Evaluating the patient-to-physician ratio is the initial step. A higher ratio suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative screenings, which are critical for early detection of prostate cancer. This ratio must be compared to both the county and national averages to understand the relative accessibility of primary care services.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly impact the PCS. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including routine prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings and digital rectal exams (DREs) for men over 50, receive a higher score. The availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as blood draw facilities, also contributes positively. Practices that actively educate patients about prostate cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening options are deemed more patient-centered and therefore, more valuable.

Specialist availability is another critical factor. The presence of urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists within a reasonable travel distance from Willow Street is essential. The geographic proximity of these specialists minimizes delays in diagnosis and treatment, improving patient outcomes. Analyzing the number of specialists per capita, similar to the PCP ratio, offers insight into the potential for competition and the overall availability of specialized care.

Several practices within 17584 may stand out. Identifying those with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction, as indicated by online reviews and patient testimonials, is crucial. Practices that have adopted advanced technologies, such as robotic-assisted surgery for prostatectomy or advanced radiation therapy techniques, may offer a higher level of care. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials, providing patients access to cutting-edge treatments, are highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists enhances access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations receive a higher PCS score. The seamless integration of telemedicine into the practice workflow is a key indicator of patient-centered care.

Mental health support is often overlooked but is an essential component of prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referral networks, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology patients.

The integration of these factors provides a nuanced view of the PCS. A high score indicates strong primary care access, a robust network of specialists, the adoption of advanced technologies, and a commitment to patient-centered care, including mental health support. Conversely, a low score suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care.

This analysis also considers the broader healthcare ecosystem. The presence of hospitals and cancer centers within a reasonable distance from Willow Street is important. These facilities often house specialized equipment, such as advanced imaging technology, and provide access to multidisciplinary care teams. The accreditation status of these facilities, indicating adherence to quality standards, further influences the PCS.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, contributes to a higher score. These navigators assist with appointment scheduling, insurance navigation, and accessing financial assistance programs. They are a valuable resource for patients facing a prostate cancer diagnosis.

Patient education and awareness initiatives are also vital. Practices that actively promote prostate cancer awareness through community outreach programs, educational materials, and support groups receive a higher score. Early detection is critical, and initiatives that encourage men to undergo screening are highly valued.

In conclusion, the Prostate Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 17584 and primary care availability in Willow Street is a complex assessment. It requires a careful evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness in the local healthcare landscape, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of care for men diagnosed with prostate cancer. This analysis is a snapshot in time, and the PCS should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare environment.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of doctors, specialists, and healthcare facilities within ZIP code 17584, and to visualize the data in a user-friendly format, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of prostate cancer care in Willow Street and surrounding areas.