19014, Aston, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 19014, Aston, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.37 percent of the residents in 19014 has some form of health insurance. 27.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.49 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 19014 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,678 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19014. An estimate of 13 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,438 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,278 health care providers accessible to residents in 19014, Aston, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on prostate cancer care accessibility and related resources within the 19014 ZIP code, specifically examining the availability of primary care physicians and their capacity to provide comprehensive care, including mental health support, in Aston, Pennsylvania. This evaluation incorporates elements like physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practice models, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a patient-centered approach to prostate cancer management.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer care is early detection and consistent monitoring, which begins with a strong relationship with a primary care physician (PCP). Aston, within the 19014 ZIP code, presents a unique challenge in this regard. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio is complex and dynamic, requiring constant updates from medical boards and insurance providers. However, publicly available data and reports from healthcare advocacy groups often indicate a potential shortage of PCPs in suburban areas, especially when factoring in the aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, all of which can negatively impact prostate cancer outcomes.

To understand the landscape, one must consider the organizational structures of medical practices. Some practices, particularly those affiliated with larger hospital systems, often have a broader network of specialists, including urologists and oncologists, who are crucial for prostate cancer treatment. These integrated systems may offer advantages in terms of coordinated care, shared medical records, and access to advanced diagnostic tools. However, the size of these systems can sometimes lead to a less personalized approach, where patients feel like they are navigating a complex bureaucracy.

Standout practices within the 19014 ZIP code are those that prioritize patient-centered care. This includes practices that emphasize clear communication, shared decision-making, and patient education. These practices often have dedicated staff members, such as nurse navigators, who help patients navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. They also actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about prostate cancer screening and prevention.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists or for patients who have difficulty traveling. The adoption of telemedicine within the 19014 ZIP code is a crucial factor in assessing access to care. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, making healthcare more accessible and convenient for patients. This is particularly important for prostate cancer patients, who often require frequent monitoring and follow-up appointments.

Beyond the purely medical aspects of prostate cancer care, the availability of mental health resources is also crucial. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact on patients, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this and provide access to mental health support, such as counseling or support groups, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. This can involve partnerships with local therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or the integration of mental health screenings into routine care.

The evaluation of mental health resources must also consider the specific needs of the patient population. For example, practices that offer support groups for men with prostate cancer, or couples counseling for patients and their partners, can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease. Access to these resources can also influence patient adherence to treatment plans and improve overall outcomes.

The assessment of primary care availability in Aston, PA, and the surrounding areas, requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves gathering data on the number of PCPs, their specialties, their patient load, and their affiliations with hospitals or healthcare systems. It also requires an analysis of the demographics of the population, including age, gender, and socioeconomic status, to understand the specific needs of the community.

Furthermore, the evaluation should consider the availability of transportation, the accessibility of healthcare facilities, and the cultural sensitivity of healthcare providers. These factors can all impact a patient's ability to access care and their overall experience.

The integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs), also plays a significant role in care coordination. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can share patient information seamlessly with specialists, improve communication, and reduce the risk of medical errors. This is especially important in the management of prostate cancer, where a multidisciplinary approach is often required.

In conclusion, the provision of high-quality prostate cancer care in the 19014 ZIP code, particularly in Aston, is dependent on a complex interplay of factors. While the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires constant monitoring, access to PCPs, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of standout practices, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical components of a comprehensive approach. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology, and provide access to mental health support are best positioned to improve outcomes for men affected by prostate cancer.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 19014 ZIP code, including the location of primary care physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers detailed geographic data and insights, allowing you to visualize the availability of healthcare resources and make informed decisions about your care.