15055, Lawrence, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15055, Lawrence, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.61 percent of the residents in 15055 has some form of health insurance. 44.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.07 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 15055 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 83 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15055. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 437 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,389 health care providers accessible to residents in 15055, Lawrence, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lawrence, PA (ZIP Code 15055)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care and primary care access within Lawrence, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15055), aiming to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. The score considers factors critical to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, focusing on physician availability, quality of care, and supportive resources. The goal is to offer insights for residents and healthcare providers, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system is access to primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the gatekeepers to preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Lawrence, evaluating primary care availability is crucial. This involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from local healthcare networks, can help determine this ratio. The analysis will consider the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population to calculate this crucial metric.

Beyond physician density, the analysis will assess the quality and accessibility of primary care practices. This includes evaluating the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the presence of extended office hours to accommodate working individuals. Reviews from patients, accessible through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, will be incorporated to gauge patient satisfaction and the overall quality of care. Furthermore, the analysis will examine the integration of electronic health records (EHRs), which can streamline communication between providers and improve care coordination.

Specialized breast cancer care is another cornerstone of the "Breast Cancer Score." This includes access to qualified radiologists, surgeons, and oncologists. The analysis will identify the presence of these specialists within or near ZIP code 15055. It will examine the availability of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI, which are crucial for early detection. The accreditation status of local hospitals and imaging centers by organizations like the American College of Radiology will be considered, as accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous quality standards.

The analysis will also evaluate the availability of breast cancer support services. This includes access to support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators who can help patients navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the emotional and psychological well-being of patients, impacting their overall quality of life. The analysis will look for partnerships between local hospitals and cancer support organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or local chapters of breast cancer advocacy groups.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which local healthcare providers in Lawrence offer telemedicine services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and potentially improve patient outcomes. The analysis will consider the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring) and the availability of these services for breast cancer patients.

Mental health resources are vital for breast cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community. It will also consider the integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan, such as access to on-site counselors or referrals to mental health specialists. Collaboration between oncology practices and mental health providers is a positive indicator of a supportive care environment.

Standout practices will be identified based on a combination of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, patient satisfaction scores, the availability of advanced technologies, and the integration of supportive services. These practices serve as benchmarks for quality care within the community. The analysis will highlight specific practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, early detection, and comprehensive support. This could include practices with a dedicated breast cancer navigator, those offering extended hours, or those actively involved in community outreach and education.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite score, reflecting the combined assessment of all the factors mentioned above. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a snapshot of the overall quality of breast cancer care and primary care access in Lawrence, PA. The goal is to provide a valuable resource for residents and healthcare providers, empowering them to make informed decisions and work towards improving the quality of care in the community.

The analysis will conclude with a summary of the key findings and recommendations for improvement. This might include suggestions for increasing physician availability, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing mental health support. The ultimate aim is to promote a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive treatment, and compassionate care for all breast cancer patients in Lawrence, PA.

To visualize and explore the data behind this analysis, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas of need, and understand the geographic accessibility of care in Lawrence, PA.