19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.39 percent of the residents in 19033 has some form of health insurance. 22.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.25 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 19033 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19033. An estimate of 40 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,018 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33,136 health care providers accessible to residents in 19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Folsom, PA (ZIP Code 19033) & Primary Care Availability

Analyzing prostate cancer care requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not just the expertise of individual physicians but also the broader healthcare ecosystem within a community. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 19033 (Folsom, PA) and its primary care landscape, evaluating factors crucial for effective prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to supporting resources.

The foundation of any prostate cancer care pathway rests on robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the gatekeepers, responsible for initial screenings, patient education, and referrals to specialists. In Folsom, the availability of PCPs is a critical starting point. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, the overall density of primary care providers within the area, and neighboring communities, is a significant factor. A higher density generally translates to easier access for patients seeking routine check-ups, including prostate cancer screenings. The presence of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics also contributes to the overall accessibility of initial medical attention.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and characteristics of primary care practices matter. Larger practices, often affiliated with larger healthcare systems, may have advantages. They may offer a wider range of services under one roof, including on-site laboratory testing for PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels, a crucial initial screening tool. These integrated systems can streamline the diagnostic process, reducing the time between screening, diagnosis, and referral to a urologist if necessary. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs and specialists, ensuring continuity of care and minimizing the risk of medical errors.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, and its impact on prostate cancer care is substantial. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with PCPs, urologists, and other specialists offers several advantages. It expands access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited specialist availability. Telemedicine can also facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, contributing to better adherence to treatment plans. The extent of telemedicine integration within practices in Folsom, including the availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, is a key consideration in assessing the overall quality of care.

The mental health of patients diagnosed with prostate cancer is often overlooked, but it is an integral component of effective care. The diagnosis itself can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting, or readily accessible referrals to mental health professionals, is a crucial element of a comprehensive care model. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer support services, either directly or through partnerships with mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Specific practices within ZIP Code 19033 and the surrounding area should be evaluated based on these criteria. Identifying standout practices involves looking for those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporating the latest technological advancements, and prioritizing the mental and emotional well-being of their patients. This requires examining factors such as patient reviews, physician credentials and specializations, the availability of on-site diagnostic services, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources.

The referral network is another important factor. The ease with which PCPs can refer patients to qualified urologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists is crucial for timely and effective treatment. The proximity of hospitals and cancer centers with specialized prostate cancer programs also influences the overall quality of care. Practices with established relationships with reputable specialists and access to advanced treatment options contribute to a more positive patient experience.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Folsom, PA, is not a single number but a composite assessment based on these interconnected factors. It reflects the overall availability and quality of primary care, the integration of technology, the provision of mental health support, and the strength of the referral network. A higher score indicates a more robust healthcare ecosystem, providing patients with better access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Analyzing the specific practices within ZIP Code 19033 requires a detailed investigation, including examining practice websites, reviewing patient testimonials, and evaluating the availability of services. The presence of board-certified urologists in the area, and their affiliations with leading hospitals and cancer centers, is a critical indicator of the quality of specialized care. The availability of advanced treatment options, such as robotic-assisted surgery and radiation therapy techniques, further enhances the overall score.

In conclusion, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Folsom, PA, is a dynamic measure reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Continuous monitoring of primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is essential to ensure that patients have access to the best possible care. Understanding the nuances of the local healthcare environment, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, and referral networks, is critical for making informed decisions about prostate cancer screening and treatment.

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