17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.90 percent of the residents in 17929 has some form of health insurance. 37.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.19 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 17929 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 246 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17929. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 286 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania.

Prostate cancer screening and treatment, coupled with accessible primary care, are crucial elements of a healthy community. This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare providers within ZIP code 17929 (Cressona, Pennsylvania) and the surrounding area, focusing on primary care availability and related factors that influence the Prostate Cancer Score. This score, though not a formal metric, is a conceptual assessment of the quality and accessibility of prostate cancer-related care, considering factors beyond just the presence of specialists.

The foundation of good prostate cancer care lies in accessible primary care. In Cressona, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts early detection and management. A high physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a larger number of patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates greater access, facilitating timely interventions. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 17929 requires detailed data from healthcare organizations and government sources, but general observations can be made.

Cressona, being a smaller community, may face challenges in PCP availability compared to larger metropolitan areas. The proximity to larger towns and cities, such as Pottsville, can offer residents access to a wider pool of PCPs. However, this also means increased travel time and potentially higher competition for appointments. The presence of established primary care practices is a significant indicator of a community's healthcare infrastructure. These practices often serve as the initial point of contact for patients, providing routine checkups, health education, and referrals to specialists, including urologists who manage prostate cancer.

Standout practices in the area are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. This includes not only treating illnesses but also proactively addressing preventative health measures, such as prostate cancer screening. Practices that actively promote screening guidelines, educate patients about risk factors, and offer convenient appointment scheduling are likely to score higher in this conceptual Prostate Cancer Score. Furthermore, practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) and utilize patient portals can improve communication and coordination of care, leading to better patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or initial consultations, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who face mobility challenges or live in remote areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can potentially reduce the burden on in-person appointments, allowing for more efficient use of resources. The availability of telemedicine can be especially beneficial for patients managing chronic conditions, including those undergoing prostate cancer treatment.

Mental health resources play a vital role in the overall well-being of patients, particularly those facing a cancer diagnosis. Prostate cancer can have a significant emotional impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals to external providers, is crucial. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and offer integrated care or facilitate access to mental health professionals are contributing to a higher Prostate Cancer Score.

The presence of support groups and educational programs further enhances the quality of care. These resources provide patients with opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and gain valuable information about their condition and treatment options. Support groups can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of prostate cancer, improving their overall quality of life. Educational programs empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and treatment plans.

When assessing the Prostate Cancer Score, it's also important to consider the presence of specialists. While primary care physicians are the gatekeepers, access to qualified urologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists is essential for effective prostate cancer management. The proximity of specialists, their credentials, and their experience in treating prostate cancer all contribute to the overall score. Access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, is also a significant factor.

The cost of healthcare is another consideration. The affordability of care, including the cost of screenings, treatments, and medications, can impact a patient's ability to access necessary services. Practices that offer transparent pricing, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and provide financial assistance programs are contributing to a more equitable healthcare system.

The overall quality of healthcare in 17929 and the surrounding areas is dependent on a complex interplay of factors. While a formal Prostate Cancer Score cannot be precisely calculated without comprehensive data, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key elements that contribute to high-quality prostate cancer care. The accessibility of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialists all play a crucial role.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17929 and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist offices, and hospitals, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care. By using CartoChrome maps, you can gain valuable insights into the healthcare infrastructure of your community and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.