18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.10 percent of the residents in 18464 has some form of health insurance. 36.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.81 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 18464 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 334 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18464. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 340 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 991 health care providers accessible to residents in 18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Tafton, PA (ZIP Code 18464)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 18464, specifically focusing on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Tafton, PA, and the broader healthcare ecosystem that supports prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient well-being. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Prostate Cancer Score” assessment, considering factors critical to patient outcomes.

The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of effective prostate cancer screening and early detection. In Tafton, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs). Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care, facilitating timely interventions. Research into the specific physician-to-patient ratio in 18464 is essential. This data point will significantly influence the overall score, as early detection is paramount in prostate cancer management.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are equally important. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and other specialists? These factors contribute to a patient's ability to navigate the healthcare system efficiently. Practices that proactively engage in patient education regarding prostate cancer risk factors and screening guidelines demonstrate a commitment to preventive care, thus boosting their score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and discussing test results, can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, especially for those in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine options, especially for routine check-ups and medication management, will receive a higher score. This is particularly relevant in areas like Tafton, where geographic limitations may impact access to in-person care. The ease of access to telehealth services is a modern-day necessity.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, but critical, component of prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health support, such as counseling services, support groups, and access to psychiatrists, is vital for patient well-being. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to mental health professionals will be recognized for their holistic approach to patient care. This support is essential for a complete recovery.

The presence of specialized urology practices and the quality of their services are also integral to the Prostate Cancer Score. Are there board-certified urologists practicing within a reasonable distance of Tafton? What is their experience in treating prostate cancer? Do they offer advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and genomic testing? Do they provide a range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy? Practices that offer comprehensive urological care, including access to the latest treatment modalities, will contribute positively to the overall score.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as physical therapy for post-treatment rehabilitation and nutritional counseling, can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Practices that integrate these services into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient management. The availability of these services is a significant indicator of a practice's commitment to the patient.

Standout practices within the 18464 ZIP code, if any, should be identified. This requires a review of patient reviews, accreditations, and awards. Practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, have a strong reputation, and are actively involved in community outreach will be highlighted. These practices serve as models for others in the area. Identifying these practices is a key component of this analysis.

The overall Prostate Cancer Score will be a composite of these factors, weighted according to their relative importance. The physician-to-patient ratio will carry significant weight, as it directly impacts access to care. The availability of primary care and urology services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources will also be significant contributors. The score will provide a snapshot of the quality and accessibility of prostate cancer care in Tafton, PA.

The analysis will also consider the presence of community resources that support prostate cancer patients. Are there local support groups? Does the local hospital offer prostate cancer education programs? The availability of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes. The presence of these resources is an important factor in the overall score.

In conclusion, the Prostate Cancer Score for Tafton, PA (ZIP Code 18464) will be a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare ecosystem that supports prostate cancer patients. It will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of primary care and urology services, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support. This analysis provides a valuable overview of the healthcare landscape in the area.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Tafton, PA (ZIP Code 18464) and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to utilize the interactive mapping tools provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.