17889, Winfield, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17889, Winfield, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.12 percent of the residents in 17889 has some form of health insurance. 27.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.25 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 17889 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 759 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17889. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 493 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,735 health care providers accessible to residents in 17889, Winfield, Pennsylvania.

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of prostate cancer care accessibility and primary care availability within Winfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17889). It considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's overall healthcare experience.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In Winfield, the exact ratio for urologists and primary care physicians (PCPs) can be difficult to ascertain without specific, up-to-the-minute data. Publicly available sources, such as the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, provide population estimates and physician licensing information. However, these sources often lack the granular detail needed to accurately determine the ratio within a single ZIP code. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility.

Within Winfield, the presence of both primary care and urology specialists is essential. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing routine checkups, screenings, and referrals to specialists. Early detection is key in prostate cancer treatment. The availability of PCPs who are proactive in recommending prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams significantly impacts patient outcomes. Urologists are the specialists who diagnose and treat prostate cancer. Their expertise in surgical procedures, radiation therapy, and medical management is critical.

Identifying standout practices within the area involves evaluating several factors. Reputation, patient reviews, and the range of services offered are important considerations. Practices that offer comprehensive prostate cancer screening and treatment options, including minimally invasive surgical techniques, advanced radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials, are often considered to be of higher quality. Additionally, practices that prioritize patient education and support services, such as support groups and counseling, can enhance the patient experience.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Its adoption within Winfield can improve access to care by reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for consultations and follow-up appointments. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing prostate cancer treatment, allowing them to connect with their doctors remotely for medication management, symptom monitoring, and emotional support. The availability of telemedicine services can also enhance the efficiency of care by reducing the burden on physical clinic spaces and allowing physicians to manage a larger patient load.

The integration of mental health resources into prostate cancer care is increasingly recognized as essential. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Practices that offer or have access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, can provide crucial support to patients and their families. This support can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological effects of their illness, improve their quality of life, and enhance their adherence to treatment plans.

Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the practices in the area and their affiliations. Are they connected to larger healthcare systems that offer integrated mental health services? Do they have partnerships with local mental health providers? The answers to these questions provide insights into the level of support available to patients.

Another factor to consider is the availability of support groups. Prostate cancer support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to connect with others who have similar experiences, share information, and offer mutual support. These groups can help patients feel less isolated and more empowered to manage their illness.

The quality of care also depends on the availability of advanced technologies. The presence of advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, can aid in the accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer. The availability of advanced treatment options, such as robotic-assisted surgery and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), can improve treatment outcomes and reduce side effects.

The overall accessibility of care is affected by insurance coverage. Understanding which insurance plans are accepted by the practices in Winfield is crucial. The availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may struggle to afford their care is also an important consideration.

In conclusion, evaluating the prostate cancer care landscape in Winfield, Pennsylvania (17889) requires a multifaceted approach. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources are all critical steps. This comprehensive analysis provides a starting point for patients seeking care in this area.

For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Winfield, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geographically informed perspective of healthcare access and availability.