15077, Shippingport, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15077, Shippingport, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.45 percent of the residents in 15077 has some form of health insurance. 30.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.77 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 15077 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 41 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 242 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15077. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 40 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,658 health care providers accessible to residents in 15077, Shippingport, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Shippingport, PA (ZIP Code 15077)

Shippingport, Pennsylvania, a small borough nestled along the Ohio River, presents a unique challenge when assessing its healthcare landscape, particularly concerning breast cancer care. Analyzing the availability and quality of care within ZIP code 15077 requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of physicians. This analysis will delve into the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive “Breast Cancer Score” evaluation.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment lies in understanding the accessibility of primary care. In Shippingport, the availability of primary care physicians serves as the initial gatekeeper for breast cancer screening and early detection. A low physician-to-patient ratio can significantly impede access to timely mammograms, clinical breast exams, and referrals to specialists. While precise data on the physician-to-patient ratio *specifically* within 15077 is difficult to obtain due to the small population size and potential for patients to seek care outside the immediate area, an assessment of the surrounding Beaver County is crucial. Beaver County, like many rural areas, likely faces challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially leading to a higher patient-to-physician ratio compared to more urban centers. This scarcity necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare delivery.

Identifying standout practices within and around 15077 is critical. These practices often serve as models for best practices in breast cancer care. Examining the practices’ commitment to early detection through regular mammogram screenings, their utilization of advanced diagnostic tools, and their patient-centered approach are key indicators. A practice that actively educates patients about breast cancer risk factors, encourages self-exams, and provides prompt referrals to specialists will likely receive a higher score. Conversely, practices lacking these elements would receive a lower rating, reflecting a potential gap in the quality of care. Publicly available data on patient satisfaction, as well as practice accreditations from organizations such as the American College of Radiology (ACR), can offer valuable insights.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly in rural communities. Its adoption in Shippingport and the surrounding areas can significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources remotely, mitigating the challenges of geographical distance and transportation. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations for breast cancer screening results, post-operative care, and supportive counseling, will be viewed favorably. Conversely, practices that have not integrated telemedicine into their care models may face a lower score, reflecting a missed opportunity to improve patient access and convenience.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the Breast Cancer Score. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of the disease. Practices that actively integrate mental health services into their breast cancer care programs, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external resources, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer survivors and their families further enhances the score. The absence of these resources would negatively impact the overall rating, highlighting a potential deficiency in the comprehensive care offered to patients.

Evaluating the Breast Cancer Score for 15077 requires a nuanced approach, acknowledging the limitations imposed by the area's size and rural setting. The score should not only reflect the availability of medical services but also the quality of those services, the integration of technology, and the provision of comprehensive patient support.

Considering all these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for physicians in ZIP code 15077 would likely be moderate. The small population and potential for a lower physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with the challenges of rural healthcare, would likely pull the score down. The score could be elevated by the presence of standout practices demonstrating a commitment to early detection, patient education, and the utilization of telemedicine. The availability of mental health resources would also be a significant factor in determining the final score.

To improve the Breast Cancer Score, the community could focus on several key areas. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians is paramount. Encouraging practices to adopt telemedicine technologies can improve access to specialists and remote consultations. Promoting patient education and awareness about breast cancer risk factors and screening guidelines is also crucial. Finally, increasing the availability of mental health resources, including support groups and individual therapy, can significantly improve the overall quality of care.

Ultimately, improving the Breast Cancer Score for Shippingport requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. By addressing the challenges of rural healthcare and focusing on patient-centered care, the community can strive to provide the best possible outcomes for individuals affected by breast cancer.

For a more granular, data-driven understanding of healthcare access and physician distribution in Beaver County and surrounding areas, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome allows you to visualize physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare resource availability, providing valuable insights for informed decision-making.