17776, Waterville, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17776, Waterville, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.13 percent of the residents in 17776 has some form of health insurance. 40.88 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 17776 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17776. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 47 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 791 health care providers accessible to residents in 17776, Waterville, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Waterville, PA (ZIP Code 17776)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of prostate cancer-related healthcare within ZIP code 17776 (Waterville, Pennsylvania), focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for men seeking prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Waterville, a small community nestled in Lycoming County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its rural setting often translates to limited access to specialized medical services, potentially impacting the timely detection and management of prostate cancer. The analysis will delve into these factors to assess the overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for the area.

**Primary Care Availability:**

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for most healthcare needs, including prostate cancer screening. The availability of PCPs in Waterville is a critical determinant of the community's overall health profile. A low density of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative care. Investigating the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, or in easily accessible neighboring communities, is essential. Furthermore, understanding the appointment scheduling practices of these physicians – including wait times for routine checkups and specific prostate cancer screenings (PSA tests) – is vital.

The analysis will consider the presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health resources. These facilities often provide services to underserved populations and may offer sliding-scale fees, increasing access to care for those with limited financial resources. The proximity of these resources to Waterville residents is a key factor.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

The physician-to-patient ratio provides a quantitative measure of healthcare access. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to care. Determining the specific physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs and urologists (specialists in the urinary tract and male reproductive system) within the relevant geographic area is crucial. This analysis will extend beyond ZIP code 17776, considering the availability of specialists in nearby towns and cities, as residents may travel for specialized care.

The availability of urologists is particularly important. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment often require the expertise of these specialists. The analysis will assess the number of practicing urologists within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors such as travel time and the availability of transportation options for residents.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care offered by local healthcare providers. This assessment will consider factors such as:

* **Patient Satisfaction:** Reviewing patient reviews and testimonials, where available, can provide insights into the patient experience.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** The presence of accreditations from reputable organizations (e.g., the American College of Surgeons) can indicate a commitment to quality and patient safety.
* **Specialized Services:** Practices offering advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., MRI, advanced biopsy techniques) or treatment options (e.g., robotic surgery) may be considered standout practices.
* **Preventative Care Programs:** Practices that actively promote prostate cancer screening and offer patient education programs may be highlighted.

The analysis will attempt to identify any practices within or near Waterville that demonstrate a strong commitment to prostate cancer care.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The analysis will investigate the extent to which local PCPs and specialists offer telemedicine consultations for prostate cancer-related care. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments for initial consultations, follow-up visits, and discussions about test results. The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as those used to track PSA levels or manage side effects from treatment, will also be considered.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources in Waterville and the surrounding area. This includes assessing:

* **The availability of therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists.**
* **The accessibility of mental health services, including wait times for appointments.**
* **The presence of support groups or other resources specifically for men diagnosed with prostate cancer.**
* **The integration of mental health services into the overall prostate cancer care pathway.**

The availability of mental health support is a critical component of comprehensive cancer care.

**Overall Prostate Cancer Score:**

Based on the analysis of these factors, a "Prostate Cancer Score" will be assigned to Waterville, PA (ZIP code 17776). This score will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of prostate cancer-related healthcare services available to residents. The score will be a subjective assessment based on the available data and will serve as a guide to the current state of healthcare in the area.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the local healthcare landscape is crucial for men in Waterville, PA, and surrounding areas, especially those concerned about prostate cancer. This analysis has highlighted the importance of primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The information gathered can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improved services within their community.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Waterville and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other relevant facilities, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide a valuable perspective on the healthcare landscape and help you navigate the system effectively.