17925, Brockton, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17925, Brockton, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.06 percent of the residents in 17925 has some form of health insurance. 36.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.44 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 17925 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 87 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17925. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 52 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,832 health care providers accessible to residents in 17925, Brockton, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Brockton, PA (ZIP Code 17925)

This analysis examines the availability of prostate cancer care and related resources within ZIP Code 17925 (Brockton, Pennsylvania), focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for individuals seeking prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment in this area.

Brockton, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Its relatively rural setting, coupled with an aging population, creates specific challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. Evaluating the quality of prostate cancer care requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not just the presence of specialists but also the supporting infrastructure and community resources.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in accessible primary care. Regular checkups and screenings are crucial for early detection, significantly improving treatment outcomes. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Brockton is a critical factor. Examining the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local hospital systems can provide insights into this ratio. Areas with a scarcity of PCPs may necessitate patients seeking care outside of Brockton, adding to travel burdens and potential delays.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Are practices equipped with the latest diagnostic tools? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and oncologists? Are they proactive in educating patients about prostate cancer risk factors and screening guidelines? These factors contribute significantly to the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in addressing prostate cancer. Investigating the patient satisfaction scores, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for seamless information sharing, and the integration of preventative care protocols within each practice is vital.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized care is crucial. The presence of urologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists within a reasonable distance is a key indicator of access to specialized prostate cancer treatment. Analyzing the number of specialists practicing within Brockton and the surrounding areas is necessary. Are there dedicated cancer centers? Do these centers offer comprehensive services, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and access to clinical trials? The proximity of these specialists and facilities directly impacts a patient’s ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

Standout practices, those demonstrating exceptional patient care and innovative approaches, deserve specific attention. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to patient education, their use of advanced technologies, or their participation in clinical research. Identifying these practices can help patients make informed decisions about their care and potentially benefit from cutting-edge treatments. Reviews from patient advocacy groups, peer-reviewed publications, and patient testimonials can illuminate the strengths of individual practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care practices and specialists in Brockton is a crucial factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and improving convenience for patients. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the patient satisfaction with these services is important. Practices offering telemedicine options are generally more accessible to patients with mobility challenges or those living in remote areas.

The emotional and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis is significant. The availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive prostate cancer care. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression associated with the disease and its treatment. Investigating the availability of mental health services within local hospitals, cancer centers, and community organizations is critical. Are there dedicated oncology social workers? Do support groups meet regularly? Are mental health services integrated into the overall care plan?

Furthermore, the integration of these resources is important. Does the healthcare system in Brockton foster collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health providers? Do practices have established referral pathways and communication protocols? Coordinated care ensures that patients receive holistic support, addressing not only their physical needs but also their emotional and psychological well-being.

In conclusion, the quality of prostate cancer care in Brockton, PA (ZIP Code 17925) hinges on the availability of primary care, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, and assessing the level of collaboration between healthcare providers are crucial steps in determining the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in addressing prostate cancer. Understanding these factors can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and access the support they need.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Brockton and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and demographics, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape and help you navigate the complexities of prostate cancer care in your community.