17946, Lost Creek, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17946, Lost Creek, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17946 has some form of health insurance. 20.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.86 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 17946 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 75 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17946. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 18 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,903 health care providers accessible to residents in 17946, Lost Creek, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Lost Creek, PA (ZIP Code 17946)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning prostate cancer, in Lost Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17946), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and consider the presence of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to a "Prostate Cancer Score." This score, though not a formal, standardized metric, represents an informed understanding of the community’s capacity to address prostate cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment.

Lost Creek, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: limited access to specialists, potential transportation difficulties, and fewer readily available resources compared to urban centers. The primary care physician (PCP) is the crucial first point of contact for men experiencing symptoms or seeking routine screenings. The availability of PCPs directly impacts early detection, a critical factor in successful prostate cancer treatment.

Assessing primary care availability involves determining the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas accessible to residents. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Department of Health & Human Services can provide this information. However, merely counting physicians is insufficient. The physician-to-patient ratio is a more telling indicator. A high ratio, meaning a large number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses.

Standout practices, if any exist within or near Lost Creek, would be those demonstrating a commitment to proactive prostate cancer screening and patient education. This includes offering regular PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing, providing educational materials about risk factors and symptoms, and fostering a strong doctor-patient relationship that encourages open communication about health concerns. Identifying these practices requires researching local healthcare providers and assessing their patient reviews, online presence, and the services they offer.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, particularly urologists and oncologists, can significantly improve access to care for residents of rural areas. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, saving time and resources for patients, and allows for more frequent follow-up appointments. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves researching the technological capabilities of local practices and hospitals, and whether they offer virtual consultations or remote monitoring services.

The connection between mental health and cancer care is increasingly recognized. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact on patients, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore an essential component of a comprehensive prostate cancer care system. This involves investigating the presence of mental health providers in the area, their accessibility, and whether they offer specialized services for cancer patients.

Lost Creek's "Prostate Cancer Score" would be influenced by the interplay of these factors. A low score would indicate limited access to primary care, a high physician-to-patient ratio, minimal telemedicine adoption, and a lack of mental health resources. Conversely, a high score would reflect a robust primary care system, easy access to specialists via telemedicine, and readily available mental health support.

Specific data points are necessary to create a truly accurate "Prostate Cancer Score." Without access to real-time information on physician counts, patient loads, telemedicine offerings, and mental health services, it is impossible to provide a precise numerical ranking. However, the framework outlined here provides a roadmap for assessing the healthcare landscape and understanding the community’s capacity to address prostate cancer.

The investigation into the healthcare landscape of Lost Creek, including the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, is essential for assessing its prostate cancer care capabilities. This assessment goes beyond simply counting doctors; it considers the quality of care, the ease of access, and the availability of supportive services.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios is crucial. A high ratio can strain the healthcare system, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. This emphasizes the need for a sufficient number of primary care physicians to serve the community effectively.

The evaluation of telemedicine adoption is vital. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and improving patient outcomes. The presence of virtual consultations and remote monitoring services can significantly enhance the "Prostate Cancer Score."

Mental health resources play a critical role in supporting patients throughout their cancer journey. The availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges associated with a prostate cancer diagnosis.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lost Creek is a reflection of these interconnected factors. A comprehensive assessment requires detailed data on each of these aspects, enabling a more informed understanding of the community's healthcare capabilities.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lost Creek and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their maps can provide valuable insights into the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, facilitating a more informed assessment of prostate cancer care accessibility.