18632, Mildred, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18632, Mildred, Pennsylvania is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.54 percent of the residents in 18632 has some form of health insurance. 35.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.96 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 18632 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 96 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18632. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 74 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 198 health care providers accessible to residents in 18632, Mildred, Pennsylvania.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Mildred, PA (ZIP Code 18632)**

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of prostate cancer care within the context of primary care access in Mildred, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18632). It considers factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, ultimately providing a 'Prostate Cancer Score' assessment. This score is not a single number, but rather a holistic evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. The analysis incorporates physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital for a comprehensive prostate cancer care landscape.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in accessible and robust primary care. Mildred, a rural community, faces inherent challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, including prostate cancer screenings. The national average physician-to-population ratio is a useful benchmark, and a comparison against this average will provide insight into the local situation. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be used to determine this ratio.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the first step. A strong primary care network is crucial for early detection. PCPs are often the first point of contact for men experiencing symptoms, such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, or blood in urine. They are responsible for conducting initial screenings, including digital rectal exams (DREs) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests. The frequency and quality of these screenings directly impact the likelihood of early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. A limited number of PCPs, or those with limited experience in prostate cancer screening, can negatively affect the overall 'Prostate Cancer Score'.

Once a potential diagnosis is suspected, access to specialists is paramount. In the context of Mildred, this often means traveling to larger regional medical centers. The distance to urologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists becomes a critical factor. Longer travel times can create barriers to care, leading to delays in diagnosis, treatment initiation, and follow-up appointments. This geographical limitation is a significant factor to be considered in the overall evaluation.

The characteristics of existing practices within and around ZIP code 18632 contribute to the score. Are the practices modern, equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, and staffed with experienced professionals? The presence of advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI and PET scans, is essential for accurate staging and treatment planning. Also, the reputation of the practices, as reflected in patient reviews and ratings, is an important consideration. Practices with a strong track record of patient satisfaction and positive outcomes will contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in Mildred is an important aspect of the analysis. The availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, urologists, and other specialists can reduce the need for travel, improve convenience, and facilitate timely access to care. The degree to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered virtually and the ease of access for patients, will influence the overall score.

Prostate cancer and its treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues are common. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The analysis assesses the availability of these resources within the community and the extent to which healthcare providers integrate mental health services into their care plans. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns and offer or refer patients to appropriate support services will contribute positively to the score.

The overall ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ for Mildred, PA (18632) is not a simple numerical value, but a composite assessment. It is based on the factors described above. A high score would reflect a strong primary care network, easy access to specialists, modern practice characteristics, robust telemedicine adoption, and comprehensive mental health support. A low score would indicate significant challenges in one or more of these areas, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and a lower quality of life for patients.

The analysis also considers the presence of any standout practices or providers. Are there any physicians or clinics that demonstrate exceptional performance in prostate cancer care? This could include practices with a high volume of patients, a strong track record of positive outcomes, or innovative approaches to patient care. Identifying and highlighting these practices can help to inform patients and guide them toward the best possible care.

The final assessment will provide a nuanced understanding of the prostate cancer care landscape in Mildred. It will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the existing healthcare infrastructure, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately provide valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The score will be based on the availability of resources, the quality of care, and the overall patient experience.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Mildred, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed overview of the healthcare resources available in the area, helping you to make informed decisions about your care.