18701, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18701, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.05 percent of the residents in 18701 has some form of health insurance. 29.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.79 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 18701 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 541 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18701. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 675 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,902 health care providers accessible to residents in 18701, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses prostate cancer care within Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18701), focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and related resources. It provides a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for men concerned about prostate health. We'll evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the system, aiming to give residents a clear picture of their options.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of healthcare access. In 18701, the availability of urologists and primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts the early detection and management of prostate cancer. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially more proactive screening. The actual physician-to-patient ratio in Wilkes-Barre needs to be carefully examined. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can be used to determine the number of practicing urologists and PCPs within the ZIP code and compare it to the population size.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of prostate cancer screening. PCPs are often the first point of contact for men experiencing symptoms or seeking routine checkups. The ease of access to a PCP, including appointment availability and the acceptance of various insurance plans, directly influences the likelihood of early detection through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs). A robust primary care system, with readily available appointments and a focus on preventative care, is a vital asset for any community. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs or barriers to access can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.

Standout practices within Wilkes-Barre often differentiate themselves through several key factors. They may have specialized equipment, such as advanced imaging technology for more accurate diagnoses. They might also have a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together urologists, oncologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care. Practices that prioritize patient education, offering resources and support groups, can also be considered standout. These practices often have a strong emphasis on patient experience, focusing on clear communication, compassionate care, and a welcoming environment. The practices in Wilkes-Barre that show the most promise should be identified by name.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in modern healthcare. It expands access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide greater convenience and reduce the burden on patients. The level of telemedicine adoption within Wilkes-Barre's medical community needs to be assessed.

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, component of cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Practices that offer or connect patients with mental health support services, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. The availability of these resources in Wilkes-Barre is essential.

The quality of prostate cancer care is also affected by the presence of specialized facilities. Hospitals and cancer centers equipped with advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and robotic surgery, play a significant role in patient outcomes. The availability of these facilities within a reasonable distance from 18701 is a key factor.

Insurance coverage and affordability also affect access to care. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, is a crucial consideration for patients. Practices that work with a wide range of insurance providers can ensure that more patients have access to the care they need. The financial burden of treatment, including copays, deductibles, and the cost of medications, can also impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

Patient education and awareness campaigns are essential for early detection. Community outreach programs, educational materials, and public service announcements can help raise awareness about prostate cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options. The level of patient education and awareness efforts in Wilkes-Barre can influence the stage at which prostate cancer is diagnosed.

The overall assessment of prostate cancer care in Wilkes-Barre, PA (18701), reveals a complex landscape. While the presence of certain specialized facilities and potentially some standout practices could be identified, a thorough analysis requires gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The information should be used to identify gaps in care and areas for improvement. The ultimate goal is to ensure that men in Wilkes-Barre have access to high-quality, comprehensive prostate cancer care.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Wilkes-Barre and to visualize the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their maps offer a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare resources available in your community.