18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.59 percent of the residents in 18655 has some form of health insurance. 42.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.42 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 18655 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,007 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18655. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,327 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,217 health care providers accessible to residents in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania.

The task is to analyze the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 18655, encompassing Shickshinny, Pennsylvania, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. This analysis will consider factors impacting patient access to care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources.

Shickshinny, a small borough in Luzerne County, presents a unique challenge for healthcare access. Its rural nature often translates to limited resources compared to more urban areas. Evaluating prostate cancer care in this setting requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of access. National averages often fail to reflect the reality in rural areas. The number of primary care physicians (PCPs) per 1,000 residents in 18655 is a critical data point. A low ratio suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments for initial screenings and ongoing management. This can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes. Data sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health are essential for obtaining this specific ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the zip code matters. Are physicians clustered in a central location, or are they spread throughout the community, offering better access for residents in different areas? The availability of specialists, such as urologists, is equally important. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment often require referral to a specialist. The distance patients must travel to see a urologist directly impacts their care.

Identifying standout practices involves assessing the quality of care provided. This includes looking at patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening and treatment, and the availability of advanced diagnostic tools. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides data on physician quality through its Physician Compare tool. Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals can also offer insights into the patient experience. However, it's crucial to remember that these reviews are subjective and may not always accurately reflect the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in rural healthcare. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services for prostate cancer care in 18655 involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. This information can be obtained by contacting local practices directly or by searching for telemedicine providers through online directories. The adoption of telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling long distances.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health support, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services, is crucial for comprehensive care. Determining the availability of these resources in 18655 requires investigating the presence of mental health providers, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, and the availability of support groups specifically for cancer patients. Local hospitals, community health centers, and cancer support organizations can provide this information.

The presence of a comprehensive cancer center in the area is also a factor. While 18655 may not have a dedicated cancer center, access to such facilities in nearby towns or cities is important. Cancer centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive services. The distance to these centers and the ease of access to their services are critical considerations.

Analyzing the specific practices in the area requires a detailed review. Identifying the names and locations of primary care practices and urology practices is the first step. Then, evaluating their websites, looking for information on their services, the physicians' credentials, and their approach to prostate cancer care. Do they offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening? Do they follow established guidelines for screening and treatment? Do they participate in clinical trials?

The availability of patient education materials is another important factor. Patients need access to reliable information about prostate cancer, its diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects. Practices that provide educational resources, such as brochures, websites, or patient education classes, are better equipped to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine also matters. Do practices use electronic health records (EHRs) to share patient information seamlessly between providers? Do they offer online appointment scheduling and patient portals for easy access to medical records and communication with their care team? These technological advancements can streamline care and improve patient convenience.

Ultimately, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for doctors in 18655 is not a single number but a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. It reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of prostate cancer care in this rural community. The score should consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialist care, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and the availability of patient education.

The challenges of providing healthcare in rural areas like Shickshinny are significant. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. Improving access to care, promoting early detection, and providing comprehensive support are essential for improving outcomes for men diagnosed with prostate cancer in this area.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for creating interactive maps that can help you understand the healthcare landscape in 18655 and beyond. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area.