15049, Harwick, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15049, Harwick, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.03 percent of the residents in 15049 has some form of health insurance. 45.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.33 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 15049 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 88 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 246 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15049. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 241 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,171 health care providers accessible to residents in 15049, Harwick, Pennsylvania.

This analysis focuses on the availability of breast cancer care resources and primary care access within ZIP code 15049, encompassing the Harwick area. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. A "Breast Cancer Score" is implicitly derived through this assessment, reflecting the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem in addressing breast cancer needs.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Harwick, a precise physician-to-patient ratio for primary care specifically is difficult to ascertain without access to granular, real-time data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health. However, we can infer potential challenges. A rural or suburban area like Harwick might face lower ratios compared to urban centers. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care, which is vital for early breast cancer detection.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate excellence in various aspects of patient care. Identifying these practices requires evaluating factors like patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., from the American College of Surgeons for breast centers), and the availability of comprehensive services. For instance, a practice offering mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy services all under one roof streamlines the diagnostic process, which is beneficial for patients. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer navigator, who guides patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is another positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially for patients in areas with limited access to specialists. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists, reducing the need for extensive travel. It can also be used for post-operative follow-up appointments and to provide access to support groups and educational resources. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and access.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for patients. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that proactively offer or refer patients to mental health services demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. The availability of these resources can significantly improve a patient's quality of life during and after treatment.

The quality of breast cancer care is also influenced by the availability of advanced treatment options. This includes access to surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists who specialize in breast cancer. The presence of clinical trials and access to cutting-edge therapies can improve patient outcomes. Practices affiliated with larger hospitals or cancer centers often have an advantage in this regard.

The assessment of primary care availability directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in breast cancer screening and early detection. Regular mammograms and clinical breast exams are essential for identifying potential problems. The ease of access to a primary care physician, therefore, directly affects the likelihood of early detection and improved outcomes. Factors like insurance acceptance, office hours, and appointment availability influence primary care access.

The geographical distribution of healthcare resources within 15049 is another key consideration. If specialists and advanced treatment options are concentrated in a specific area, patients in other parts of the ZIP code may face travel challenges. This highlights the importance of considering the overall healthcare ecosystem, including transportation options and the availability of support services.

To provide a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score, we would need to gather detailed information from various sources. This includes data from healthcare providers, insurance companies, and government agencies. A thorough analysis would involve evaluating the following: the number of primary care physicians per capita; the availability of breast cancer screening services; the presence of breast cancer specialists; the adoption of telemedicine; the availability of mental health resources; and the overall patient experience.

The "Breast Cancer Score" in this context is not a single number but a composite evaluation based on the factors discussed. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a more supportive healthcare environment. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing timely and quality breast cancer care.

In conclusion, the availability of breast cancer care and primary care resources in Harwick (ZIP code 15049) is a complex issue. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating mental health support are all crucial. While providing a precise, quantifiable score requires extensive data collection, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors that contribute to the quality of breast cancer care in this area.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and the availability of support services, explore CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare access within the 15049 ZIP code and surrounding areas.