18853, Wyalusing, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18853, Wyalusing, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.85 percent of the residents in 18853 has some form of health insurance. 39.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.56 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 18853 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 927 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18853. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 902 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 563 health care providers accessible to residents in 18853, Wyalusing, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Wyalusing, PA (ZIP Code 18853)

Analyzing the prostate cancer care landscape within Wyalusing, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18853) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), the presence of urologists, and the integration of supportive services, all within the context of a rural community. This analysis aims to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering key factors impacting patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Wyalusing, the availability of PCPs is a critical determinant. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A lower ratio indicates a greater concentration of physicians per capita, potentially leading to more readily available appointments and more comprehensive care. Conversely, a high ratio can strain the system, potentially delaying screenings, diagnosis, and treatment initiation. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio for 18853 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments would provide the baseline.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. Does the community have practices that are recognized for excellence? Are there any standout practices, perhaps those affiliated with larger health systems? Evaluating the patient reviews, if available, and assessing the practice's commitment to preventive care, including prostate cancer screening guidelines, is crucial. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers also play a significant role. EHRs streamline communication, ensuring seamless information transfer between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers.

The next crucial component of the analysis is the availability of urological services. While Wyalusing is a rural area, access to specialists is vital. The presence of a urologist within the community or in a nearby town is a significant factor. If a urologist isn't immediately available, the proximity to specialists in larger cities like Scranton or Binghamton (NY) becomes important. The travel time to these specialists, and the ease of access to transportation, will impact the overall score.

The integration of telemedicine into the healthcare ecosystem is another critical element. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. The adoption rate of telemedicine by local PCPs and specialists is a key indicator. Does the community offer telehealth consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of post-treatment care? The availability of reliable internet access in the area is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Beyond medical care, the availability of mental health resources is also a significant factor in the "Prostate Cancer Score." A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. The availability of local mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services can significantly impact a patient's overall well-being and ability to cope with the disease. Assessing the presence of these resources, and their accessibility, is essential. Are there any partnerships between local healthcare providers and mental health organizations?

The "Prostate Cancer Score" would be based on a weighted system, giving more importance to factors that have a greater impact on patient outcomes. The availability of PCPs and urologists would be heavily weighted. The quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources would also be significant components. The score would be a composite, reflecting the overall strength of the prostate cancer care infrastructure in Wyalusing.

Assessing the quality of care involves examining the practices' commitment to evidence-based medicine. Are the PCPs and specialists adhering to the latest prostate cancer screening and treatment guidelines? Do they offer patient education resources? Do they participate in continuing medical education to stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field?

The overall score is also influenced by the community's access to diagnostic imaging, such as MRI and CT scans. The availability of these services, and their affordability, are essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer. The presence of a local hospital or imaging center is a positive factor.

The affordability of healthcare is also a critical concern. The cost of prostate cancer screenings, diagnosis, and treatment can be substantial. The availability of financial assistance programs, and the acceptance of various insurance plans, are important considerations. The analysis would need to consider the local cost of living and the average income levels in the area.

In conclusion, a comprehensive analysis of prostate cancer care in Wyalusing (18853) requires a detailed examination of various factors. The availability of PCPs and urologists, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the affordability of healthcare are all important considerations. The resulting "Prostate Cancer Score" would provide a valuable assessment of the community's ability to provide effective prostate cancer care. This analysis requires a detailed investigation of the healthcare landscape in the area.

To visually explore the healthcare resources in Wyalusing and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, making it easier to understand the distribution of resources and identify potential gaps in care.