18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.01 percent of the residents in 18832 has some form of health insurance. 43.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.33 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 18832 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 431 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18832. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 339 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,891 health care providers accessible to residents in 18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Monroeton, PA (ZIP Code 18832)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 18832, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians, specialist access, and related resources. The assessment aims to provide a Prostate Cancer Score (PCS) ranking, considering factors crucial for patient outcomes and overall well-being. This score will be generated through an evaluation of several key areas, ultimately painting a picture of the healthcare environment for individuals in Monroeton.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Monroeton, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical component. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early detection. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access to timely care. The analysis will examine the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the 18832 ZIP code and compare it to regional and national averages. Data will be sourced from publicly available databases and potentially from local healthcare providers, where available.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. The analysis will assess the integration of prostate cancer screening guidelines into routine check-ups. This includes the frequency of PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) tests, digital rectal exams (DREs), and discussions about family history. Practices that proactively implement these screenings and provide patient education will score higher. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data sharing and care coordination will also be considered.

Specialist access is another crucial factor. The availability of urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists within a reasonable travel distance is vital for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. The analysis will identify the number of specialists practicing within the 18832 ZIP code and the surrounding areas, assessing their specializations and areas of expertise. Travel time to these specialists will also be a key consideration, as longer travel times can negatively impact patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

The analysis will identify standout practices in the area. These practices will be recognized for their comprehensive approach to prostate cancer care, including patient education, support services, and advanced treatment options. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, evidenced by positive patient reviews and testimonials, will be highlighted. The utilization of evidence-based guidelines and participation in clinical trials will also be considered.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Monroeton. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which local healthcare providers offer telemedicine services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients who live far from specialists or have mobility limitations. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies will be given a higher score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are critical for patients diagnosed with cancer. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, within the 18832 ZIP code and surrounding areas. The presence of oncology-specific mental health services, which address the unique challenges faced by cancer patients, will be given particular weight. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan will also be considered.

The Prostate Cancer Score (PCS) will be derived from a weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weights will be assigned based on their relative importance to patient outcomes and overall well-being. For example, PCP availability and specialist access will likely receive higher weights than telemedicine adoption, although telemedicine remains important. The final score will be presented on a scale, allowing for a clear understanding of the overall quality of prostate cancer care in Monroeton.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient support resources. This includes support groups, patient navigators, and educational materials. The presence of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes by providing emotional support, practical assistance, and access to information. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to these resources will be given a higher score.

The analysis will incorporate data from various sources, including publicly available databases, healthcare provider websites, and potentially patient surveys. The data will be carefully analyzed to ensure accuracy and reliability. The analysis will also consider the demographic characteristics of the population in the 18832 ZIP code, as these factors can influence healthcare needs and access to care.

The final PCS ranking will provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare, identify areas for improvement, and advocate for better care. It will also provide healthcare providers with insights into their performance and identify opportunities for improvement.

This comprehensive analysis will offer a nuanced understanding of the prostate cancer care landscape in Monroeton, PA. The resulting Prostate Cancer Score will serve as a benchmark for evaluating the quality of care and identifying areas for improvement. The goal is to empower patients and healthcare providers to work together to improve outcomes and enhance the overall well-being of individuals affected by prostate cancer.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Monroeton, PA (ZIP Code 18832) and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to support services, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps provide an interactive and data-driven visualization of healthcare access, enabling a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment.