17729, Cross Fork, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17729, Cross Fork, Pennsylvania is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.29 percent of the residents in 17729 has some form of health insurance. 53.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.90 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 17729 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17729. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 50 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1 health care providers accessible to residents in 17729, Cross Fork, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17729 and Cross Fork Primary Care

Analyzing the prostate cancer care landscape within ZIP Code 17729 and the primary care availability in Cross Fork, Pennsylvania, presents a complex picture. This area, encompassing a rural environment, demands a nuanced approach to assessing the quality and accessibility of healthcare services. The "Prostate Cancer Score" in this context isn't a single, easily quantifiable metric. Instead, it's a composite evaluation considering several factors: access to primary care physicians, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and the overall physician-to-patient ratio.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care begins with robust primary care. Cross Fork, a small community within the broader 17729 ZIP code, faces inherent challenges regarding primary care availability. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages, leading to potentially longer wait times for appointments and a reduced ability for patients to establish a strong doctor-patient relationship. This is critical for early detection and ongoing monitoring of prostate health. The availability of primary care physicians in Cross Fork is likely limited, potentially forcing residents to travel to larger towns within the ZIP code or even outside it for routine checkups and initial screenings.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator. Determining the exact ratio within 17729 requires accessing specific data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health. However, the rural nature of the area suggests a likely higher patient-to-physician ratio compared to more urbanized regions. This means each physician potentially carries a heavier patient load, which can impact the time dedicated to individual patient care and potentially delay appointments. The implications for prostate cancer care are significant, as timely screenings and follow-up appointments are vital for successful outcomes.

Specialist availability is another key consideration. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment often require the expertise of urologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The presence of these specialists within the 17729 ZIP code is crucial. Rural areas often experience a shortage of specialists, forcing patients to travel significant distances for consultations, diagnostic procedures, and treatment. This travel burden can be particularly challenging for elderly patients, those with mobility issues, or those lacking reliable transportation. The availability of specialized care within a reasonable distance directly impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score."

Telemedicine adoption offers a potential solution to some of the access challenges. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely via video conferencing or phone calls. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and discussing test results. The degree of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and specialists within 17729 is a critical factor. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care for patients in remote locations like Cross Fork, reducing the need for extensive travel.

Mental health resources also play a significant role. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally distressing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health support services, such as therapists and counselors, is an important component of comprehensive care. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan is essential for patient well-being. The presence of these resources, either within the primary care practices or through referrals, impacts the overall patient experience and contributes to the "Prostate Cancer Score."

Identifying standout practices within 17729 requires in-depth research, including patient reviews, physician ratings, and information on the services offered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, offer comprehensive care, and actively utilize telemedicine would likely receive higher marks. Practices with strong patient satisfaction scores, a focus on preventative care, and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment would also contribute positively to the overall assessment.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for the 17729 ZIP code and Cross Fork is likely to be moderate, reflecting the challenges of providing healthcare in a rural setting. The limited availability of primary care physicians, the potential for higher patient-to-physician ratios, and the potential scarcity of specialists are all contributing factors. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the presence of mental health resources can mitigate some of these challenges.

To further analyze the healthcare landscape and visualize the data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can display physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points. This allows for a visual representation of the healthcare access challenges and opportunities within the 17729 ZIP code and the surrounding areas.