17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.08 percent of the residents in 17888 has some form of health insurance. 35.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.37 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 17888 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 126 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17888. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 100 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,065 health care providers accessible to residents in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below examines the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 17888, focusing on physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and related resources. It also considers the primary care infrastructure in the nearby town of Wilburton, Pennsylvania. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for men in this area, particularly those concerned about prostate health.

The primary challenge in evaluating prostate cancer care in a specific ZIP code like 17888 is the limited availability of granular, publicly accessible data. Information on individual physician performance, specific treatment outcomes, and detailed resource allocation is often proprietary or protected by privacy regulations. Therefore, this analysis relies on publicly available information, general healthcare trends, and demographic considerations to formulate an informed perspective.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. ZIP code 17888, being a rural area, likely faces challenges common to such regions. These include a lower density of physicians, particularly specialists like urologists and oncologists who are central to prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) to the population in Wilburton, which serves as a regional hub, also plays a crucial role. A robust primary care network is the gateway to early detection, providing crucial screenings and referrals. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and limited access to preventative care.

Standout practices are difficult to identify definitively without in-depth investigations. However, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, early detection, and advanced treatment modalities are highly valued. This includes those that offer comprehensive screening programs, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams. Practices that integrate multidisciplinary teams, involving urologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and potentially mental health professionals, are also highly regarded. Additionally, practices with a strong focus on patient education and support, including access to support groups and educational materials, contribute to a positive patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in 17888 and Wilburton to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources without extensive travel. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, such as video conferencing and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients. The availability of reliable internet access is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital for men diagnosed with prostate cancer. The diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer can have a significant emotional impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either in-house or through referrals to qualified professionals, are essential. Access to support groups, individual counseling, and educational programs addressing the psychological aspects of cancer care can significantly improve patient well-being.

The primary care availability in Wilburton directly impacts prostate cancer care in 17888. Wilburton serves as a central point for healthcare services for the surrounding communities. The strength of the primary care network in Wilburton determines the effectiveness of early detection and referrals. A well-resourced primary care system with a sufficient number of PCPs, coupled with efficient referral pathways to specialists, is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. The availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as MRI and ultrasound, within the Wilburton area also influences the speed and accuracy of diagnosis.

Evaluating the overall 'Prostate Cancer Score' for doctors in 17888 and primary care in Wilburton requires considering all these factors. The score would be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the strength of the primary care network. A higher score would reflect a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive treatment, and patient-centered care. A lower score would indicate potential challenges in accessing timely and effective care.

Specific scores are impossible to assign without more detailed data. However, the general assessment is that 17888 and the surrounding areas likely face challenges related to healthcare access, particularly for specialized care. The rural nature of the region may result in a lower physician density and greater reliance on telemedicine and regional hubs like Wilburton.

The assessment emphasizes the importance of early detection, which relies on regular screenings and prompt referrals from primary care physicians. The integration of mental health services is also vital, as the emotional impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be significant. Telemedicine offers a promising solution to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to specialist care.

The analysis concludes that the healthcare landscape in 17888 and Wilburton requires a concerted effort to improve access to care, enhance early detection efforts, and provide comprehensive support to patients. This includes increasing the number of physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and integrating mental health resources.

For a more detailed visualization of healthcare resources and geographic access, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome.