15038, Elrama, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15038, Elrama, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.28 percent of the residents in 15038 has some form of health insurance. 23.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.90 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 15038 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 73 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15038. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 88 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,969 health care providers accessible to residents in 15038, Elrama, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Elrama, PA (ZIP Code 15038)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Elrama, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15038) through the lens of breast cancer care requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial entry point for early detection and ongoing management, and then examine the broader ecosystem of breast cancer resources accessible to residents. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a qualitative assessment of the community's preparedness to address this critical health concern.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. In Elrama, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the likelihood of early detection through regular screenings and the establishment of a patient-physician relationship conducive to open communication about health concerns. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data on this ratio, ideally broken down by specialty (internal medicine, family practice, etc.), is vital. The analysis should also consider the proximity of primary care practices to residential areas, assessing ease of access for residents, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices matters. This includes factors like the implementation of evidence-based screening guidelines (e.g., mammography recommendations), the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient data management, and the availability of on-site or readily accessible imaging services. Practices that actively promote preventative care, including patient education about breast cancer risk factors and self-exams, are likely to score higher. The analysis should investigate the accreditation status of local practices, as this can be an indicator of quality and adherence to established standards.

Telemedicine adoption presents another crucial aspect. The ability for patients to consult with their primary care physicians or specialists remotely can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those living in rural areas or facing transportation challenges. The analysis should examine the extent to which local practices offer telehealth services for initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and the delivery of test results. The availability of telehealth platforms that are user-friendly and accessible to patients with varying levels of technological proficiency is also a key consideration.

Addressing the mental health needs of breast cancer patients is equally important. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis should assess the availability of mental health resources in Elrama, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site therapists or referral networks, is a significant advantage. Furthermore, the analysis should examine the availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, providing a safe space for sharing experiences and receiving emotional support.

Standout practices within Elrama deserve recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care can serve as a model for others. This could include practices with a high rate of mammography screenings, a strong patient education program, or a robust telehealth infrastructure. These practices should be highlighted, and their best practices should be examined. Patient testimonials and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and identify practices that are particularly well-regarded by the community.

The broader healthcare ecosystem surrounding Elrama also plays a role. The proximity of specialized cancer centers, hospitals with comprehensive cancer programs, and radiation oncology facilities is critical. The analysis should assess the travel time to these facilities and the availability of transportation assistance for patients who may need it. The presence of support services, such as patient navigators who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, is also a significant factor.

Finally, the analysis should consider the role of community resources. The availability of breast cancer awareness programs, educational events, and free or low-cost screening opportunities can significantly impact early detection rates. The analysis should investigate the presence of local organizations that are actively involved in breast cancer advocacy and support.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Elrama, PA (ZIP code 15038) will be determined by a comprehensive evaluation of the factors discussed above. This includes the availability and quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the presence of standout practices, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis will provide a qualitative assessment of the community's preparedness to address breast cancer, highlighting strengths and weaknesses and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Elrama, including the location of primary care practices, cancer centers, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.