17823, Dornsife, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17823, Dornsife, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.70 percent of the residents in 17823 has some form of health insurance. 31.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.65 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 17823 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 336 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17823. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 259 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,345 health care providers accessible to residents in 17823, Dornsife, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Dornsife, PA (ZIP Code 17823)

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within the Dornsife, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17823) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, crucial for early detection and management of this prevalent disease. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors impacting the overall prostate cancer score.

Dornsife, a predominantly rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population density often translates to a lower concentration of medical professionals, potentially affecting access to timely and comprehensive care. Understanding the existing infrastructure is paramount to evaluating the effectiveness of prostate cancer services.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Dornsife is a critical indicator. While precise, publicly available data for this specific ZIP code can be challenging to obtain, estimates can be derived from county-level figures and regional averages. Northumberland County, where Dornsife is located, likely experiences a physician shortage, especially concerning specialists like urologists and oncologists. This shortage can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and increased travel distances for patients seeking specialized care. The impact is amplified for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of prostate cancer, requiring prompt investigation.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the first line of defense in prostate cancer screening and early detection. They are responsible for conducting initial assessments, ordering prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. The availability of PCPs in Dornsife, therefore, directly influences the effectiveness of early detection programs. The analysis will consider the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and surrounding areas, their patient load, and their willingness to actively participate in prostate cancer screening protocols.

Identifying standout practices within the Dornsife area is crucial. These practices may demonstrate superior performance in prostate cancer care, characterized by proactive screening programs, patient education initiatives, and a commitment to providing comprehensive care. Factors considered include the practice's utilization of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening, its patient satisfaction scores, and its integration of multidisciplinary care, involving PCPs, urologists, and potentially oncologists. Assessing the quality of the care offered by these practices can provide insights into the overall standard of prostate cancer management in the region.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to mitigate the challenges of geographical isolation and limited access to specialists. The analysis will investigate the extent to which practices in Dornsife utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education related to prostate cancer. The availability of virtual consultations with urologists or oncologists could significantly improve access to specialized care for patients in the area.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for patients undergoing prostate cancer treatment and management. The diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services in Dornsife, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health support into the overall care plan is a crucial factor in improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

The overall prostate cancer score for Dornsife will be based on a weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, and standout practices will be weighted heavily, reflecting their direct impact on access to care and the quality of services. Telemedicine adoption and mental health resources will also contribute to the score, indicating the comprehensiveness of the care provided. A higher score will signify better access to care, a more proactive approach to screening, and a more supportive environment for patients.

The analysis will also consider the availability of local resources, such as support groups, educational materials, and community outreach programs. These resources can play a vital role in empowering patients and raising awareness about prostate cancer. The analysis will examine the presence and effectiveness of these programs in the Dornsife area.

The assessment will not only identify the strengths and weaknesses of prostate cancer care in Dornsife but also provide recommendations for improvement. These recommendations may include strategies to increase the number of PCPs and specialists, promote telemedicine adoption, enhance mental health support, and expand community outreach programs.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the prostate cancer care landscape in Dornsife, empowering patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions and improve the quality of care for individuals affected by this disease. The analysis is designed to be a living document, updated regularly to reflect changes in healthcare delivery and advancements in prostate cancer management.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Dornsife and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a visual representation of the healthcare infrastructure, allowing for a deeper understanding of the resources available and the challenges faced by the community.