15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.00 percent of the residents in 15083 has some form of health insurance. 44.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.54 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 15083 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 133 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15083. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 303 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,883 health care providers accessible to residents in 15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sutersville, PA (ZIP Code 15083)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Sutersville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15083) requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the quality of those practices, and the broader healthcare infrastructure supporting breast cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score,' considering factors beyond simple physician counts.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Sutersville, being a relatively small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas, including physician shortages. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to delayed screenings, diagnostic delays, and overall poorer health outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with data from healthcare provider directories, would be essential to calculate this ratio accurately. A low ratio necessitates exploring strategies to improve access, such as telehealth initiatives or recruiting more physicians to the area.

Beyond the raw number of PCPs, the quality and comprehensiveness of primary care practices are crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate working individuals? Do they have robust electronic health record (EHR) systems that facilitate seamless communication and data sharing? These systems are critical for coordinating care and ensuring timely referrals to specialists. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as mammography, significantly enhances convenience and reduces the time between initial screening and diagnosis. Practices with integrated services are likely to score higher in our assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in areas with limited access to specialists. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to expert opinions. The availability of telemedicine services for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and follow-up care would significantly boost a practice's score. Practices actively embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and overcoming geographical barriers.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices with integrated mental health services or established referral pathways to mental health professionals will receive higher scores. This includes access to counselors, support groups, and other resources designed to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological burdens of their illness.

The presence of standout practices within the ZIP code or in nearby areas is a key factor. Identifying practices that excel in breast cancer care requires evaluating several elements. This includes the experience and expertise of the physicians, the use of evidence-based guidelines for screening and treatment, and patient satisfaction levels. Patient reviews, accreditations from organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) for mammography facilities, and data on cancer outcomes can provide valuable insights. Practices actively participating in clinical trials or research initiatives would also be highly regarded.

The availability of specialized breast cancer care outside of primary care is also important. This includes access to surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The proximity of these specialists to Sutersville is a significant factor. Patients should not have to travel excessive distances to receive the care they need. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated breast cancer center or a strong affiliation with a major cancer center would significantly improve the overall score.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' would be a composite of these factors, weighted according to their relative importance. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the presence of standout practices, and access to specialized care would all contribute to the final score. The score would provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Sutersville, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in breast cancer care.

The analysis also needs to consider the socioeconomic factors impacting access to care. Factors such as insurance coverage, transportation availability, and health literacy levels can significantly influence a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Addressing these disparities is essential to ensuring equitable access to breast cancer services for all residents of Sutersville.

This 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis is not a static assessment. It is a dynamic evaluation that needs to be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. New physicians may arrive, practices may adopt new technologies, and healthcare policies may evolve. Regular updates ensure that the score remains relevant and useful for patients, providers, and policymakers.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower patients with information and to help healthcare providers improve the quality of care. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, we can work towards building a stronger and more responsive healthcare system for the residents of Sutersville and the surrounding areas. This requires a commitment to data-driven decision-making, patient-centered care, and continuous improvement.

Understanding the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and other relevant data is critical for a thorough analysis. To visualize this data effectively, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access to care, and track changes over time.

**To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sutersville and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, explore the potential of CartoChrome maps. Contact us today to learn more about how CartoChrome can help you.**