The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18969, Telford, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 94.64 percent of the residents in 18969 has some form of health insurance. 29.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.15 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 18969 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 3,348 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18969. An estimate of 26 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,995 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,434 health care providers accessible to residents in 18969, Telford, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18969, Telford, Pennsylvania
Prostate Cancer Score | 85 |
---|---|
People Score | 43 |
Provider Score | 90 |
Hospital Score | 35 |
Travel Score | 80 |
18969 | Telford | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Telford, PA (ZIP Code 18969)
Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care in Telford, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18969) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the direct medical resources but also the broader context of primary care availability and mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, though it's crucial to understand that such a score is inherently complex and relies on publicly available data, potentially subjective interpretations, and doesn't substitute for personalized medical advice.
The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in early detection and management, heavily influenced by the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). Telford's primary care availability is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs). Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from healthcare directories, can provide estimates of these ratios. However, the actual impact is nuanced. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often provide primary care services, can mitigate the effects of a lower physician-to-patient ratio.
Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices significantly impact prostate cancer care. Assessing practices involves considering factors like appointment scheduling efficiency, insurance acceptance, and the availability of preventative care services. Practices that proactively offer PSA testing and discuss prostate health with male patients, particularly those over 50 or with a family history of prostate cancer, demonstrate a commitment to early detection. Furthermore, practices that have adopted electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and facilitate the seamless transfer of patient information between primary care physicians and specialists, which is crucial for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The presence of standout practices within the Telford area is another crucial factor. Identifying these practices requires research into patient reviews, physician credentials, and the range of services offered. Practices that are part of larger healthcare systems, such as hospitals or multi-specialty groups, often have access to a broader range of resources, including advanced imaging technology and specialized oncology services. These practices often have established referral pathways to urologists and oncologists, streamlining the process for patients requiring further evaluation or treatment. However, the impact of these systems can be double-edged, as larger systems can also lead to bureaucratic hurdles and impersonal care.
Telemedicine adoption is a rapidly evolving aspect of healthcare, particularly relevant for prostate cancer care. Telemedicine offers the potential for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers, allowing for more frequent check-ins and timely intervention if necessary. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors like internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the ability to conduct thorough physical examinations remotely.
The mental health aspect of prostate cancer care is often overlooked but is critically important. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a significant factor in the overall well-being of patients. Primary care practices that screen for mental health issues and have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Additionally, the presence of support groups specifically for prostate cancer patients and their families can provide invaluable emotional support and practical advice.
Evaluating the availability of specialists, particularly urologists and oncologists, is crucial. While primary care physicians are essential for early detection and initial management, patients diagnosed with prostate cancer will require specialized care. The proximity of urologists and oncologists to Telford is a key factor. Longer travel times can be a barrier to accessing care, potentially delaying treatment and follow-up appointments. Assessing the credentials and experience of these specialists is also important. Board certification, years of experience, and specialization in prostate cancer treatment are all indicators of expertise.
The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for Telford, PA, would be a composite of these factors. It would reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity and expertise of specialists. A high score would indicate a strong healthcare infrastructure that supports early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient care. A low score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and improving access to mental health resources.
The accuracy of any score depends on the availability and reliability of data. Publicly available information may not always provide a complete picture. Patient reviews, while valuable, can be subjective. Therefore, the "Prostate Cancer Score" should be considered an initial assessment and not a definitive measure of the quality of care.
To visualize and analyze these factors geographically, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer the ability to overlay data points, such as the locations of physicians, hospitals, and mental health resources, onto a map of the Telford area. This allows for a visual representation of healthcare access and can help identify areas with limited resources. You can use CartoChrome maps to identify the distribution of healthcare providers, analyze physician-to-patient ratios by geographic area, and assess the proximity of specialists to patients. This visual approach can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Telford and inform efforts to improve prostate cancer care.
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