17878, Stillwater, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17878, Stillwater, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.10 percent of the residents in 17878 has some form of health insurance. 45.95 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 17878 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 287 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17878. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 365 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 643 health care providers accessible to residents in 17878, Stillwater, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17878 and Primary Care in Stillwater

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 17878, focusing on physician availability, primary care resources in the surrounding area, and related factors impacting patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The analysis considers key indicators such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The core of effective prostate cancer management lies in access to qualified medical professionals. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental step. Within ZIP code 17878, the availability of urologists, oncologists, and primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the speed and quality of care. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, increased wait times for diagnostic procedures, and potentially, a delay in treatment initiation. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing patients to receive timely interventions and potentially improving their prognosis. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can be used to estimate these ratios. Further research into the specific practices within the area, including their patient load and appointment availability, is crucial for a more accurate assessment.

Beyond raw numbers, the specialization of physicians is critical. While primary care physicians play a vital role in screening and initial referrals, the expertise of urologists and oncologists is essential for diagnosis, staging, treatment planning, and ongoing management. The presence of board-certified urologists with experience in prostate cancer, including those specializing in minimally invasive techniques like robotic-assisted surgery, is a significant advantage. Similarly, the availability of medical oncologists specializing in genitourinary cancers, who can administer chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and other systemic treatments, is paramount. A comprehensive assessment must identify the types of specialists practicing within the area, their credentials, and their specific areas of expertise.

Primary care availability in the broader Stillwater area (while not directly within the 17878 ZIP code) significantly influences the overall health of the community and, by extension, the detection and management of prostate cancer. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking routine screenings. A robust primary care network, with readily accessible PCPs, facilitates early detection through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams. Furthermore, PCPs can provide ongoing support and guidance to patients throughout their treatment journey. An analysis should evaluate the density of PCPs in Stillwater, their appointment availability, and their adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies can offer greater convenience and flexibility, reducing the burden of travel and time off work. An assessment of telemedicine adoption should identify which practices in the 17878 ZIP code and surrounding areas offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the patient experience with these platforms.

The mental health of prostate cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as counseling services, support groups, and psychiatric care, is essential for patients to cope with the psychological impact of their illness. An analysis should investigate the availability of these resources in the 17878 ZIP code and surrounding areas, including the presence of therapists and counselors specializing in oncology or men's health, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan.

Identifying standout practices is crucial for highlighting best practices and providing patients with informed choices. This requires an evaluation of various factors, including physician qualifications, patient reviews, treatment outcomes, and the availability of supportive services. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer a comprehensive range of services, and have a proven track record of positive outcomes should be recognized. This assessment should also consider the practice's participation in clinical trials, its use of advanced technologies, and its commitment to continuing medical education.

The analysis should also consider the infrastructure supporting prostate cancer care. This includes the availability of diagnostic imaging facilities, such as MRI and PET scans, as well as radiation therapy centers. Access to these resources is essential for accurate diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. The analysis should identify the location of these facilities, their accessibility, and their technological capabilities.

In conclusion, a thorough assessment of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 17878 and the surrounding Stillwater area requires a multi-faceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of supportive services provides a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. This analysis serves as a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, helping to improve access to quality care and ultimately, enhance the lives of those affected by prostate cancer.

If you're seeking a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 17878 and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and the distribution of resources within the community.