17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.05 percent of the residents in 17881 has some form of health insurance. 45.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.68 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 17881 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 289 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17881. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 309 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,096 health care providers accessible to residents in 17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Trevorton, PA (ZIP Code 17881)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 17881, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) resources in Trevorton, Pennsylvania. We will assess the landscape based on several key factors: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for residents seeking effective and accessible healthcare for prostate cancer concerns.

Trevorton, a small community in Northumberland County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area can impact the availability of specialized medical services, including those related to prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Understanding these limitations and identifying strengths is crucial for residents seeking optimal care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Trevorton, the ratio of PCPs to the overall population is likely a significant factor. A lower ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early interventions for prostate cancer. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health would be instrumental in determining the specific ratio within this ZIP code. This data would reveal the number of PCPs actively practicing and the estimated population they serve.

Within the context of prostate cancer care, the availability of PCPs is the first line of defense. PCPs are responsible for initial screenings, such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exams (DRE). They also provide referrals to specialists, like urologists, for further evaluation and treatment if necessary. A shortage of PCPs necessitates residents to travel further to obtain these vital services.

Identifying standout practices in Trevorton is essential. While the overall healthcare landscape might be limited, certain practices could demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality prostate cancer care. This would involve assessing practices that prioritize preventative screenings, utilize evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, and offer patient-centered care. These practices might implement strategies to reduce wait times, improve communication with patients, and provide comprehensive support services.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in overcoming geographic barriers to healthcare. In rural areas like Trevorton, telemedicine can bridge the gap between patients and specialists. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with urologists, oncologists, and other relevant specialists can significantly improve access to care. This is especially important for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, and managing side effects of treatment. The availability of telemedicine platforms, the technological infrastructure to support them, and the willingness of local providers to adopt these technologies are crucial considerations.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health resources into prostate cancer care is often overlooked, yet critically important. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. Practices that recognize and address these needs by offering counseling services, support groups, or referrals to mental health professionals are essential. This holistic approach to care can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Evaluating the availability of these resources requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes reviewing online directories, contacting local healthcare providers, and consulting with patient advocacy groups. The information obtained should be cross-referenced to ensure accuracy and completeness.

The analysis would also consider the presence of support services within the community. This includes support groups for patients and their families, educational resources about prostate cancer, and access to financial assistance programs. These services can help patients navigate the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The quality of prostate cancer care in Trevorton is directly influenced by the availability of specialists. The presence of a urologist in or near the ZIP code is of paramount importance. The distance patients must travel to access specialized care can significantly impact their experience and outcomes.

The analysis also considers the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options. This includes access to imaging technologies, such as MRI and CT scans, and treatment modalities, such as radiation therapy and minimally invasive surgery.

The final Prostate Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the availability and quality of care based on the factors discussed. It will provide a valuable tool for residents seeking to understand the healthcare landscape in their community and make informed decisions about their care.

In conclusion, assessing prostate cancer care in Trevorton, PA (ZIP code 17881) is a complex process that requires a detailed examination of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all critical components. Addressing these factors will help ensure that residents have access to the best possible care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Trevorton and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can reveal the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and other relevant data. By utilizing CartoChrome maps, residents can gain a more comprehensive view of the healthcare resources available in their community and make informed decisions about their health.