18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18231 has some form of health insurance. 41.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.84 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 18231 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 119 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18231. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 22 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,617 health care providers accessible to residents in 18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Kelayres, PA (ZIP Code 18231)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care and primary care availability in Kelayres, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18231) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers factors impacting patient access, quality of care, and overall well-being. We'll delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare environment for men facing prostate cancer concerns.

The cornerstone of accessible healthcare is the availability of primary care physicians. In Kelayres, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a critical factor. Given the area's demographic, the ratio might be higher than the national average, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care, including prostate cancer screenings. This scarcity necessitates a deeper look into how existing primary care practices operate.

Standout primary care practices in the area would be those that prioritize patient access and comprehensive care. This could involve extended hours, weekend availability, and a proactive approach to preventative screenings. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, facilitating seamless communication with specialists and efficient management of patient data, are particularly beneficial. Furthermore, a commitment to patient education, providing resources and information about prostate cancer risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, is paramount.

Telemedicine offers a crucial bridge in rural areas, particularly for specialty consultations and follow-up appointments. Its adoption in Kelayres is essential. The presence of telemedicine capabilities within primary care practices and specialist networks could significantly improve access to urologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in prostate cancer care. This allows patients to receive timely consultations without the burden of long-distance travel, which can be a significant barrier for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth also allows for remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment cannot be overstated. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. Ideally, primary care practices and specialist offices should have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. These professionals can provide support to patients and their families, helping them navigate the emotional challenges associated with the disease. Access to support groups and educational programs focused on mental wellness are also valuable.

The quality of prostate cancer care extends beyond primary care and specialist availability. The presence of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, within a reasonable distance is vital for accurate diagnosis and staging. The availability of radiation therapy and surgical options, including robotic-assisted surgery, is also a significant factor. The closer the patient can access these services, the better their overall experience and outcomes.

The success of any healthcare system relies on collaboration and communication. This is particularly important in managing prostate cancer. Primary care physicians, urologists, oncologists, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals must work together seamlessly. This collaboration ensures that patients receive coordinated care, with all providers having access to the same information and working toward a common goal.

The landscape of prostate cancer care in Kelayres is also influenced by the insurance coverage available to residents. The availability of affordable health insurance is critical to ensuring that patients can access the care they need. The prevalence of Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans in the area will impact the financial accessibility of services.

The presence of community resources is also important. This includes organizations that provide support to cancer patients and their families, such as the American Cancer Society or local support groups. These organizations can offer valuable information, emotional support, and practical assistance.

Assessing the overall quality of care also involves evaluating patient outcomes. The availability of data on prostate cancer survival rates and treatment success rates in the area can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of local healthcare services. This data can be used to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that patients are receiving the best possible care.

In conclusion, evaluating prostate cancer care in Kelayres requires a comprehensive assessment. While specific data is limited, the analysis suggests that physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources are crucial areas to examine. The presence of advanced diagnostic and treatment options, the degree of collaboration among healthcare providers, and the availability of community resources are also essential factors.

To gain a more detailed and visually engaging understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kelayres, including the distribution of healthcare providers, the location of specialized services, and the availability of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize and analyze geographic data, helping to identify areas of need and opportunities for improvement.