18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 18818 has some form of health insurance. 38.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.47 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 18818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 248 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 230 health care providers accessible to residents in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below assesses prostate cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP Code 18818, focusing on Friendsville, Pennsylvania. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice strengths, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, providing a comprehensive overview for residents seeking healthcare services.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer care is access to a skilled and available primary care physician (PCP). Friendsville, like many rural communities, faces challenges in maintaining optimal physician-to-patient ratios. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be used to estimate these ratios. Analyzing this data reveals the number of PCPs practicing within the 18818 ZIP Code, comparing it to the total population. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can hinder timely screenings, referrals, and ongoing management of prostate cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to primary care services, crucial for early detection and comprehensive treatment.

Standout practices within the 18818 ZIP Code, or those serving the area, are evaluated based on several criteria. These include the presence of board-certified urologists, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like MRI and PET scans, and their participation in prostate cancer screening programs. Patient reviews and testimonials also play a significant role in identifying practices known for their patient-centered approach and positive outcomes. Furthermore, practices with affiliations with larger healthcare systems or hospitals often offer a broader range of services and specialized expertise.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical aspect of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The analysis considers the extent to which practices in the 18818 ZIP Code utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel time, and enhance access to specialists, including urologists and oncologists. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and online educational resources are all indicators of a practice’s commitment to telemedicine.

Mental health resources are integral to comprehensive cancer care. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. The analysis examines the availability of mental health services within the 18818 ZIP Code, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of support groups specifically for prostate cancer patients and their families is also a key factor in assessing the availability of mental health resources.

Primary care availability in Friendsville is assessed by examining the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the wait times for appointments, and the types of insurance accepted. Practices that readily accept new patients and offer timely appointments contribute to improved access to care. The acceptance of a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, ensures that healthcare services are accessible to a broader population. Additionally, the analysis considers the availability of after-hours care, such as urgent care clinics or on-call physicians, to address patients’ needs outside of regular office hours.

The quality of prostate cancer care in the 18818 ZIP Code is also influenced by the presence of local hospitals and their capabilities. Hospitals with advanced cancer treatment centers, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy services, are essential for providing comprehensive care. The analysis assesses the proximity of hospitals to Friendsville, the range of services offered, and the hospital's accreditation status. Hospitals that participate in clinical trials and offer innovative treatment options demonstrate a commitment to providing state-of-the-art care.

Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the National Cancer Institute, and the American Cancer Society can be used to assess prostate cancer incidence and mortality rates within the 18818 ZIP Code and surrounding areas. Comparing these rates to state and national averages provides insights into the effectiveness of local healthcare services and the need for targeted interventions. Areas with higher-than-average incidence or mortality rates may require increased screening efforts, public health campaigns, and improved access to specialized care.

The analysis also considers the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to healthcare. Factors such as income levels, educational attainment, and insurance coverage rates can influence a patient’s ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Areas with a higher proportion of low-income residents or individuals without health insurance may require targeted interventions to address healthcare disparities. These interventions could include free or low-cost screening programs, financial assistance for treatment, and outreach efforts to educate residents about available resources.

In conclusion, assessing prostate cancer care and primary care availability in Friendsville requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considered physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Access to care, the quality of care, and the availability of resources are crucial for residents of the 18818 ZIP Code.

For a visual representation of healthcare access and resources in the 18818 ZIP Code and surrounding areas, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can offer a detailed geographic overview of physician locations, hospital facilities, and other relevant healthcare data.