18642, Duryea, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18642, Duryea, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.91 percent of the residents in 18642 has some form of health insurance. 43.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.80 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 18642 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 645 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18642. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,000 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,102 health care providers accessible to residents in 18642, Duryea, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Duryea, PA (ZIP Code 18642)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care in Duryea, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18642) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not just the availability of specialists but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. This analysis attempts to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, though it's important to acknowledge the limitations of such a generalized metric and the need for individual patient consultation.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer management is early detection and diagnosis. This, in turn, hinges on the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Duryea, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios. While precise figures fluctuate, national averages suggest a need for approximately one PCP per 1,300-1,500 residents. A higher ratio in Duryea would indicate potential access challenges, potentially delaying initial screenings and referrals. This delay could negatively impact the "Prostate Cancer Score." Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a stronger foundation for early detection. The local healthcare system's capacity to accommodate new patients and offer timely appointments is also crucial.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care plays a vital role. Are PCPs actively screening for prostate cancer through PSA (prostate-specific antigen) tests and digital rectal exams? Are they well-versed in the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Urological Association (AUA) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)? The ability to provide comprehensive care, including patient education and risk assessment, elevates the "Prostate Cancer Score." A PCP who proactively discusses family history, lifestyle factors, and the pros and cons of screening is invaluable.

Referral pathways are equally important. The ease with which a PCP can connect a patient to a urologist is critical. This involves assessing the proximity of urology practices, their acceptance of various insurance plans, and their reputation within the community. The "Prostate Cancer Score" benefits from a streamlined referral process. Delays in seeing a specialist can lead to anxiety and potentially hinder timely treatment.

The presence of standout practices within or near Duryea significantly impacts the score. Identifying urology practices known for their expertise in prostate cancer management, including minimally invasive surgical techniques like robotic-assisted prostatectomy, radiation therapy options like brachytherapy, and access to clinical trials, is paramount. Practices with a strong focus on patient-centered care, offering clear communication, and actively involving patients in treatment decisions, contribute positively to the score. Reputation, measured through patient reviews and peer recommendations, is a key indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in modern healthcare, especially in areas with potential access limitations. The availability of virtual consultations with urologists and PCPs can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in more remote areas. The "Prostate Cancer Score" benefits from practices embracing telemedicine, making care more accessible and convenient.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are an essential component of comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients, is vital. The "Prostate Cancer Score" is enhanced by the presence of mental health support services, including access to support groups and counseling, to address the psychological impact of the disease.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, is also important. Patient navigators can help with insurance issues, scheduling appointments, and coordinating care. They can also provide emotional support and connect patients with relevant resources. The "Prostate Cancer Score" benefits from the presence of these services.

Insurance coverage plays a significant role in access to care. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers is a crucial factor. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, increase access to care for all residents. The "Prostate Cancer Score" is negatively impacted by limited insurance acceptance.

The overall score would be determined by the interplay of all these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare ecosystem with good access to primary care, readily available specialist referrals, advanced treatment options, telemedicine capabilities, robust mental health support, and a patient-centered approach. A low score would indicate potential challenges in accessing care, including limited primary care access, long wait times for specialist appointments, and a lack of comprehensive support services.

While a precise numerical score is difficult to assign without in-depth data collection, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of prostate cancer care in Duryea. The goal is to highlight areas where improvements can be made to ensure that all residents have access to the best possible care.

To gain a more visual and detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Duryea, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, and to analyze demographic data relevant to prostate cancer risk, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.