17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.27 percent of the residents in 17768 has some form of health insurance. 45.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.40 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 17768 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 56 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17768. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 57 health care providers accessible to residents in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Examining Healthcare in 17768 and Shunk

This analysis delves into the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 17768 (likely covering the Muncy area) and the availability of primary care resources in the small community of Shunk, Pennsylvania, focusing on factors relevant to prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment, considering physician availability, technological integration, and supportive resources, ultimately impacting the prostate cancer care score.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on accessible and competent primary care. In 17768, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Data on this ratio needs to be meticulously researched. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau will be necessary to calculate this metric accurately. Furthermore, it is vital to determine the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively accepting new patients. This availability directly impacts access to preventative screenings, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, and initial consultations.

Shunk, with its significantly smaller population, presents a different set of challenges. Primary care availability is likely severely limited. The analysis must ascertain the presence of any PCPs serving the community or the nearest healthcare facilities. The distance to these facilities, and the availability of transportation options, are critical considerations. A lack of local primary care necessitates a reliance on healthcare resources in surrounding areas, potentially impacting the timeliness of care.

Beyond simple physician counts, the quality of care is paramount. The analysis must identify standout practices within or serving 17768. This involves researching practices with a strong reputation for patient care, focusing on their approach to prostate cancer screening and management. Key indicators include the adoption of evidence-based guidelines, the utilization of advanced diagnostic tools (such as MRI), and the presence of a multidisciplinary team (including urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists). Patient reviews, if available, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The analysis must assess the telemedicine capabilities of practices in 17768 and the availability of telemedicine services for residents of Shunk. This includes evaluating the ease of access to these services, the types of consultations offered, and the insurance coverage for telemedicine visits.

The emotional and psychological well-being of prostate cancer patients is often overlooked but is a critical aspect of their overall health. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health resources within 17768 and the surrounding areas. This includes identifying therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. The proximity of these resources, their accessibility, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan are crucial indicators of a supportive healthcare environment. The availability of resources for managing anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges associated with a cancer diagnosis can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The analysis must also consider the availability of support services such as patient navigators and social workers. These professionals play a vital role in guiding patients through the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. Their presence within a practice or hospital system can significantly improve the patient experience and ensure that individuals receive the necessary care and resources.

The economic considerations of healthcare access are also vital. The analysis should assess the cost of care, including the cost of screenings, consultations, and treatments. It should also consider the availability of financial assistance programs and the acceptance of various insurance plans. The affordability of care can be a significant barrier for some patients, and the availability of resources to help manage these costs is a crucial aspect of the overall healthcare environment.

For the residents of Shunk, the analysis must focus on the resources available in the surrounding areas. This includes identifying the nearest hospitals, clinics, and specialists. The availability of transportation options, such as public transportation or patient transport services, is crucial for ensuring that residents can access the care they need. The analysis must also assess the coordination of care between the primary care providers in the surrounding areas and the specialists involved in prostate cancer treatment.

The overall prostate cancer care score will be a composite metric, weighting the factors discussed above. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of support services. The score will also consider the economic considerations of healthcare access and the availability of resources for residents of Shunk.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare environment in 17768 and the accessibility of care for residents of Shunk. This understanding is crucial for identifying areas of strength and weakness and for informing efforts to improve prostate cancer care in these communities. By considering the various factors discussed above, the analysis can provide a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape and help to improve the lives of patients affected by this disease.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, providing a clearer understanding of the healthcare environment in 17768 and the surrounding areas. Visit CartoChrome today to explore how their mapping solutions can enhance your understanding of healthcare access and resources.