18335, Marshalls Creek, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18335, Marshalls Creek, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.18 percent of the residents in 18335 has some form of health insurance. 37.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.34 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 18335 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 342 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18335. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 249 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,700 health care providers accessible to residents in 18335, Marshalls Creek, Pennsylvania.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Marshalls Creek, PA (ZIP Code 18335)**

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Marshalls Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18335) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the overall physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine technologies, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in assessing the quality and accessibility of care for individuals facing a prostate cancer diagnosis or seeking preventative screenings. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, highlighting both strengths and areas needing improvement.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, providing crucial screenings, monitoring, and referrals. Evaluating primary care availability involves examining the number of PCPs practicing within the 18335 ZIP code, coupled with an understanding of the patient population size. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Conversely, a high ratio suggests a more readily available system, allowing for proactive screening and early intervention.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the PCPs' familiarity with prostate cancer screening guidelines, their willingness to discuss risk factors and family history, and their ability to effectively communicate complex medical information. The availability of comprehensive patient education materials and support resources within primary care practices is also a key indicator of quality. This evaluation should consider the average wait times for appointments, the ease of scheduling, and the overall patient experience within each practice.

The presence of specialized urology practices within or near the 18335 ZIP code is another critical factor. Urologists are the specialists who diagnose and treat prostate cancer. The proximity of these specialists, their expertise in various treatment modalities (surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy), and their integration with other healthcare providers are all essential. The analysis should identify the leading urology practices, assessing their experience, reputation, and patient outcomes. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, within these practices is also crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption within the 18335 ZIP code can significantly impact the quality of prostate cancer care. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for patients undergoing treatment or those living at a distance. The analysis should assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and urologists, evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the user-friendliness of the platforms, and the overall patient experience with telehealth services.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis is significant. Mental health resources are therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. The analysis should examine the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare system. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or men's health. The integration of mental health services within primary care and urology practices, such as on-site counselors or referrals to mental health professionals, is a positive indicator of a patient-centered approach. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, provides patients with a vital network of support and shared experiences.

The assessment of the local healthcare landscape should also consider the presence of any standout practices. This could include practices that have demonstrated exceptional patient outcomes, adopted innovative treatment approaches, or excelled in patient satisfaction. Identifying these practices helps to highlight best practices and provides a benchmark for others to emulate. These practices may also be involved in clinical trials or research, which can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

Evaluating the overall physician-to-patient ratio in the 18335 ZIP code requires data from multiple sources. State medical boards, professional organizations, and healthcare databases can provide information on the number of physicians practicing in the area. The U.S. Census Bureau provides population data. The ratio can be calculated by dividing the total population by the number of physicians. This ratio provides a general indication of access to care, but it's important to note that it doesn't reflect the quality of care or the availability of specialized services.

The analysis also needs to consider the demographic characteristics of the population within the 18335 ZIP code. Factors such as age, race, and socioeconomic status can influence prostate cancer risk and access to care. Understanding the specific needs of the local population is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet their needs. This includes considering cultural sensitivity, language barriers, and transportation challenges.

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in Marshalls Creek, PA, requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, specialist expertise, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall physician-to-patient ratio. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of care, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Marshalls Creek and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to resources, and demographic data, we recommend exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a dynamic and data-rich view of the healthcare ecosystem, allowing for a deeper dive into the factors influencing prostate cancer care in your community.