17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.16 percent of the residents in 17922 has some form of health insurance. 28.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.24 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 17922 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,331 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17922. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 935 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,744 health care providers accessible to residents in 17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Auburn, PA (ZIP Code 17922)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care in Auburn, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17922) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of medical professionals but also the broader healthcare ecosystem that supports patient well-being. This analysis aims to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, factoring in various elements to gauge the quality and accessibility of care.

One of the most critical components of this assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Auburn, a primarily rural community, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as a crucial gateway to specialized care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or concerned about their prostate health. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can create bottlenecks, delaying crucial screenings and referrals to urologists, the specialists who diagnose and treat prostate cancer. Determining the exact ratio requires access to up-to-date data on physician counts and population demographics within the ZIP code, ideally sourced from reliable databases like the American Medical Association (AMA) or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This data is essential to understanding the baseline level of access.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community is vital. Are the physicians concentrated in a single clinic or hospital, or are they spread throughout the area, increasing accessibility for residents in different parts of Auburn? The presence of multiple practices, especially those with a history of strong patient outcomes and positive reviews, can significantly improve the overall score. Identifying standout practices requires analyzing patient satisfaction surveys, online reviews, and potentially, data on the practice’s adherence to national guidelines for prostate cancer screening and treatment. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive patient education, and facilitate seamless referrals to urologists would score higher.

The availability of urologists within or near ZIP code 17922 is another key factor. While PCPs are the initial point of contact, urologists are essential for diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. The proximity of urology specialists, including the ease of scheduling appointments, directly impacts the timeliness of care. If residents must travel long distances for specialist consultations, the "Prostate Cancer Score" will be negatively affected. The presence of a well-equipped hospital or clinic with advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and biopsy capabilities, further enhances the score.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially in rural communities. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists who may not be located in Auburn. The availability of telehealth appointments for initial consultations, follow-up visits, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment significantly elevates the score. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine, providing user-friendly platforms and ensuring patient privacy, are likely to score higher.

Mental health resources play a crucial, often overlooked, role in prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in supporting cancer patients is essential. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans, offering referrals to qualified professionals and promoting mental wellness, contribute positively to the overall score.

Furthermore, the availability of patient education materials is critical. Patients need access to clear, concise, and reliable information about prostate cancer, including screening guidelines, treatment options, and potential side effects. Practices that provide educational brochures, online resources, and opportunities for patients to ask questions score higher. The ability to communicate effectively with patients and empower them to make informed decisions about their care is a hallmark of high-quality healthcare.

The quality of care is also influenced by the hospital infrastructure in the area. The presence of a modern hospital with a dedicated oncology department, radiation therapy facilities, and experienced surgical teams is crucial. The hospital's accreditation status, its adherence to national quality standards, and its patient outcomes data all contribute to the overall assessment. The availability of advanced treatment options, such as minimally invasive surgery, robotic-assisted surgery, and targeted therapies, further enhances the score.

To summarize, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Auburn, PA (ZIP code 17922) is a composite measure that reflects the availability of physicians, the accessibility of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the quality of hospital infrastructure, and the availability of patient education. A high score indicates a community that provides comprehensive, accessible, and patient-centered care. A low score suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and effective care.

This analysis provides a general framework. To gain a more precise understanding of the healthcare landscape in Auburn, it is crucial to gather specific data on physician counts, practice locations, telemedicine adoption rates, mental health resources, and hospital infrastructure. This data will allow for a more accurate and nuanced assessment of the "Prostate Cancer Score".

Ready to explore the healthcare landscape in Auburn, PA, in greater detail? Consider using CartoChrome maps to visualize physician locations, hospital facilities, and other relevant data points. CartoChrome can help you identify areas with high and low access to care, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.