18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.44 percent of the residents in 18224 has some form of health insurance. 48.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.76 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 18224 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,381 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18224. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,311 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,602 health care providers accessible to residents in 18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Freeland, PA (ZIP Code 18224)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of prostate cancer care within Freeland, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18224), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, their integration of prostate cancer screening and management, and the overall healthcare infrastructure supporting men's health in the area. We consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive prostate cancer care system.

Freeland, nestled in Luzerne County, presents a unique healthcare environment. The town's size and demographic profile influence the availability and accessibility of medical services. A key indicator is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures for Freeland alone are difficult to obtain due to data aggregation, analysis of county-level data and neighboring communities provides a reasonable estimate. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential challenges in accessing timely care, impacting early detection and treatment of prostate cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio indicates greater availability, potentially leading to improved outcomes.

The presence of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. PCPs serve as the first point of contact for men's health concerns, including prostate cancer screening. The quality of primary care significantly influences the early detection of prostate cancer. Regular screenings, including digital rectal exams (DREs) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, are crucial for identifying the disease in its early, more treatable stages. PCPs who are proactive in recommending these screenings and discussing individual risk factors are vital. The availability of PCPs who also have a strong understanding of prostate cancer management, including referral pathways to specialists, further enhances the quality of care.

Standout practices within the area, if any, are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive prostate cancer care. These practices may have specialized programs, experienced physicians, or a patient-centered approach. Identifying these practices involves researching their services, patient reviews, and the technologies they employ. Practices that incorporate advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI, for diagnosis and staging, and those that offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy, are highly desirable.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and follow-up care. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer greater convenience and can improve access to care for patients who may have difficulty traveling. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals contributes to a more efficient and patient-friendly healthcare experience.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical in prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services or provide referrals to mental health providers demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

Evaluating the availability of these resources requires a thorough investigation. This includes researching local hospitals, clinics, and physician practices. Examining their websites, reading patient reviews, and contacting them directly can provide valuable insights. Additionally, consulting with local community health organizations and support groups can help identify resources and understand the needs of the community.

The overall score for prostate cancer care in Freeland, PA, is dependent on the interplay of these factors. A high score indicates a well-resourced healthcare system with readily available PCPs, proactive screening practices, access to specialists, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. A lower score suggests potential challenges in accessing care, emphasizing the need for improvements in various areas.

Specific examples of practices that excel in prostate cancer care may be difficult to pinpoint without a detailed investigation. However, the presence of a hospital system with a dedicated urology department would be a significant positive factor. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI, for accurate diagnosis and staging is also a critical element. The existence of support groups and patient education programs further enhances the overall score.

The analysis also considers the impact of insurance coverage. The affordability of healthcare services is a major factor in access to care. The prevalence of different insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs influence a patient's ability to receive timely screenings and treatments.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption involves identifying practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. These technologies improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from medical facilities. Practices that utilize these tools are more likely to receive a higher score.

The availability of mental health resources is assessed by examining the presence of mental health professionals within physician practices or the availability of referrals to external providers. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide support services or referrals are more likely to receive a higher score.

In conclusion, the prostate cancer care landscape in Freeland, PA, requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall score. Further research is needed to gain a more precise understanding of the specific resources available in the area.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Freeland, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a valuable tool for visualizing the availability of healthcare resources and identifying potential gaps in care.