18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.37 percent of the residents in 18439 has some form of health insurance. 46.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.69 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 18439 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18439. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 589 health care providers accessible to residents in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Lakewood, PA (ZIP Code 18439)

This analysis provides an assessment of healthcare resources within ZIP Code 18439 (Lakewood, PA), focusing on factors relevant to prostate cancer care. The goal is to evaluate the accessibility and quality of care for men in this community, considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This score is a composite, reflecting the overall landscape rather than a single, definitive metric.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and proactive patient education are critical. Assessing primary care availability requires understanding the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the population within Lakewood. This includes consideration of the patient-to-physician ratio. A high ratio indicates potential strain on existing resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. Publicly available data, such as that from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, would be used to estimate the population of Lakewood and cross-referenced with physician directories to determine the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code. The resulting ratio gives a preliminary indication of access.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the willingness of PCPs to discuss prostate cancer risk factors, family history, and the importance of screening guidelines, such as the American Cancer Society’s recommendations. Are these physicians actively promoting PSA testing and digital rectal exams as appropriate? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists for further evaluation when necessary? These factors contribute significantly to the overall score.

Specialized care is also crucial. The presence of urologists within or near Lakewood is a key determinant. Proximity to specialists reduces the burden on patients, minimizing travel time and facilitating timely access to diagnosis and treatment. Ideally, the community would have access to urologists who specialize in prostate cancer, offering a range of treatment options, including robotic-assisted surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff, further enhances the quality of care.

Telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, and its adoption is particularly relevant in rural areas like Lakewood. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. The extent of telemedicine adoption by local physicians and healthcare facilities is a significant factor in the score. Does the community have access to virtual consultations for initial assessments, medication management, or post-operative follow-up? The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as wearable devices, further enhances the telemedicine score.

Mental health is often overlooked in cancer care, but its impact on patient well-being is undeniable. A prostate cancer diagnosis can trigger anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical component of the score. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer-related issues. Are mental health services integrated into the overall cancer care plan? Are patients screened for psychological distress and referred to appropriate resources? The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can significantly improve the patient experience.

Identifying standout practices within Lakewood is also essential. This involves evaluating the quality of care provided by individual physicians and healthcare facilities. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, physician experience, and the utilization of evidence-based practices. Are there any practices known for their expertise in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment? Do they participate in clinical trials or offer innovative therapies? Identifying these standout practices helps to highlight the best resources available within the community.

The analysis would also consider the availability of patient education materials. Access to reliable information about prostate cancer, screening guidelines, treatment options, and support services is crucial for empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care. Does the community have access to educational resources from reputable organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or the Prostate Cancer Foundation? Are these resources available in multiple formats, including online, print, and in-person presentations?

Furthermore, the score would take into account the affordability of care. The cost of prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment can be substantial. The availability of affordable healthcare options, including insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and access to generic medications, is a significant factor in ensuring equitable access to care.

Finally, the score considers the overall community infrastructure. This includes the availability of transportation services, such as public transportation or ride-sharing programs, to help patients access healthcare facilities. It also considers the presence of community health centers and other resources that provide support to patients and their families.

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in Lakewood, PA (ZIP Code 18439) requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including primary care availability, specialized care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community infrastructure. By considering these factors, a more accurate picture of the quality and accessibility of care can be developed. This analysis aims to provide a valuable resource for men in Lakewood, helping them to navigate the healthcare system and make informed decisions about their health.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Lakewood and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.