17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17933 has some form of health insurance. 63.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.37 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 17933 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17933. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 98 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,708 health care providers accessible to residents in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania.

This analysis examines the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 17933 (Friedensburg, PA) and the surrounding area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a critical entry point for early detection and management. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all factors impacting the overall prostate cancer score for this community.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care begins with accessible and high-quality primary care. This is where initial screenings, such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exams (DRE), take place. The physician-to-patient ratio in Friedensburg and the surrounding areas significantly impacts access. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, improving the chances of early detection and intervention. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau can be analyzed to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio. This data, coupled with information on the age distribution of the population, particularly the percentage of men over 50 (the age group most at risk), provides a crucial baseline for evaluating the prostate cancer score.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various factors. These include the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) accepting new patients, the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments, and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices that utilize EHRs often have better data management capabilities, enabling them to track patient health history, schedule screenings, and coordinate care more effectively. Furthermore, the practice's commitment to patient education is essential. Providing clear and concise information about prostate cancer, its risk factors, and screening guidelines empowers patients to take an active role in their health. Reviews from patients, accessible through online platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, the quality of care, and the overall patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the prostate cancer score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially for those living in rural areas or with limited mobility. Telemedicine consultations can facilitate initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and consultations with specialists, potentially reducing the need for in-person visits and minimizing travel burdens. The availability of telemedicine services for primary care in the 17933 ZIP code and surrounding areas will be assessed. This includes identifying which practices offer telemedicine options, the types of services available (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the insurance coverage for these services. Practices with robust telemedicine capabilities will score higher in the prostate cancer assessment.

The mental health of patients diagnosed with prostate cancer is often overlooked, but it is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being. A cancer diagnosis can lead to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is an essential factor in the prostate cancer score. This analysis will identify mental health professionals and resources in the Friedensburg area, including those specializing in oncology or men's health. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, will also be evaluated. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients, either through in-house services or referrals to external resources, will receive a higher score.

The overall prostate cancer score for doctors in ZIP code 17933 and primary care availability in Friedensburg is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all the factors discussed. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score indicates better access to care, a more patient-centered approach, and a greater likelihood of early detection and effective management of prostate cancer. The final score would be presented as a comprehensive assessment, using a numerical scale or descriptive categories to provide a clear understanding of the current state of prostate cancer care in the area.

The primary care landscape in Friedensburg, while potentially facing challenges common to rural areas, can be improved through strategic initiatives. These include attracting and retaining qualified PCPs, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health services into primary care practices. Community outreach programs that raise awareness about prostate cancer screening and encourage men to seek regular check-ups can also have a positive impact. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to prostate cancer care.

To further analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and their impact on prostate cancer care in Friedensburg and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can visualize the location of primary care practices, specialists, and other relevant resources, providing a clear understanding of access and potential disparities.