18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.53 percent of the residents in 18509 has some form of health insurance. 39.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.51 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 18509 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,928 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18509. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,124 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,015 health care providers accessible to residents in 18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18509)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of prostate cancer care within Scranton, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on ZIP code 18509. It assesses the availability and quality of care, considering factors such as physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for patients seeking information about their prostate cancer care options in this area.

The first critical element is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are the initial point of contact for many patients, often initiating the screening process and providing referrals to specialists. Scranton, and specifically 18509, needs a robust PCP network. A low physician-to-patient ratio can hinder timely screenings and diagnoses. A high ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, suggests better access. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from healthcare directories, can provide a baseline understanding of the PCP landscape in the area. Further investigation is needed to determine the average wait times for appointments, which is a key indicator of accessibility.

The next layer involves the presence of urologists, the specialists directly involved in diagnosing and treating prostate cancer. A sufficient number of urologists, ideally with specialized training in prostate cancer treatment, is crucial. The analysis must consider the number of board-certified urologists practicing within the 18509 ZIP code and surrounding areas. Furthermore, the volume of patients seen by each urologist can provide insight into their experience. Practices with a high volume of prostate cancer patients often develop greater expertise in diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond the number of specialists, the quality of care is paramount. This requires an assessment of the resources available at local practices and hospitals. Do these facilities offer advanced diagnostic tools, such as multi-parametric MRI (mpMRI) for more accurate prostate imaging? Are they equipped with advanced treatment options, including robotic-assisted surgery (e.g., the da Vinci system), brachytherapy, and access to clinical trials? The availability of these technologies and treatment modalities is a significant factor in determining the overall quality of care available to patients.

Standout practices within the 18509 area should be identified. These practices might be recognized for their patient-centered approach, high success rates, or innovative treatment protocols. Information from patient reviews, physician ratings, and accreditations from organizations like the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) can help identify these leading providers. Furthermore, practices that participate in national registries or clinical trials demonstrate a commitment to staying at the forefront of prostate cancer care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the analysis. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups can significantly enhance the patient experience. The analysis should assess which practices offer telemedicine services and the extent to which these services are utilized.

The integration of mental health resources into prostate cancer care is often overlooked, yet it is essential. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact on patients, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes access to psychologists, psychiatrists, and support groups specifically designed for men with prostate cancer and their families.

The analysis must also consider the affordability of care. This involves assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices and hospitals. Information on the cost of common procedures, such as prostate biopsies and surgeries, should also be considered. Transparency in pricing and the availability of financial assistance programs can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and afford the necessary care.

Geographic accessibility is another factor. The analysis should consider the proximity of practices and hospitals to patients' homes. This includes assessing the availability of public transportation and the ease of parking. Practices located in areas with good transportation infrastructure are generally more accessible to a wider range of patients.

The analysis should also consider the availability of patient education resources. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive information about prostate cancer, including screening guidelines, treatment options, and potential side effects, empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. This can include educational materials, online resources, and support groups.

Furthermore, the analysis should examine the practice's commitment to patient communication. Practices that prioritize clear and open communication with patients are more likely to build trust and foster a positive patient-physician relationship. This includes providing patients with timely updates on their test results, treatment plans, and any changes in their care.

Finally, the analysis must be dynamic. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and treatment options emerging regularly. Therefore, the analysis should be updated periodically to reflect these changes. This ensures that the information provided remains current and relevant to patients seeking prostate cancer care in Scranton, PA (18509). The goal is to provide a valuable resource for patients, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

For a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and healthcare resource accessibility within the 18509 ZIP code and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome’s data visualizations can help you navigate the complexities of healthcare access and make informed decisions about your prostate cancer care.