15135, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15135, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.90 percent of the residents in 15135 has some form of health insurance. 33.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.55 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 15135 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 966 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15135. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,000 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,390 health care providers accessible to residents in 15135, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15135 & Primary Care in McKeesport

This analysis provides an assessment of the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 15135 (primarily encompassing the town of McKeesport, Pennsylvania) and the broader context of primary care availability in the city. The focus is on factors relevant to breast cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient support, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to individuals in this area, particularly those concerned about breast cancer.

McKeesport, situated in Allegheny County, faces challenges common to many post-industrial communities. Economic factors, coupled with geographical constraints, can impact access to healthcare. This analysis will delve into these complexities, offering a snapshot of the current situation.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access:**

A critical element of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. In McKeesport and the surrounding areas, the availability of primary care physicians, oncologists, and radiologists specializing in breast cancer is a significant concern. While precise, up-to-the-minute ratios are difficult to obtain due to constant shifts in physician staffing and patient demographics, publicly available data from organizations like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can offer estimates. These estimates often reveal a shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and a reduced capacity to provide preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings.

The impact of this shortage is amplified for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, those with lower incomes, and individuals without reliable transportation. These groups may experience greater difficulties accessing timely medical care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes. Furthermore, the concentration of specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, in larger medical centers outside of McKeesport can necessitate travel, adding another barrier to care.

**Standout Medical Practices:**

Identifying standout medical practices requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of physicians. Reputation, patient reviews, accreditations, and the availability of advanced technologies all play a role. Practices affiliated with larger hospital systems, such as UPMC or AHN, often have access to a broader range of resources, including specialized equipment for mammography, ultrasound, and other diagnostic procedures.

Within the 15135 ZIP code and the immediate vicinity, identifying practices with a strong focus on breast cancer care requires careful research. This includes examining the availability of:

* **Dedicated breast cancer specialists:** Oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists with specific expertise in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
* **Comprehensive screening programs:** Availability of state-of-the-art mammography equipment, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis).
* **Patient navigation services:** Programs that assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and accessing support services.
* **Multidisciplinary care:** The integration of various specialists to provide a holistic approach to patient care.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to improve healthcare access, particularly in areas with physician shortages or transportation challenges. The adoption of telemedicine in McKeesport is a critical area of evaluation. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources can significantly enhance the patient experience and improve health outcomes.

The extent of telemedicine adoption can vary significantly across different practices. Factors influencing adoption include:

* **Technological infrastructure:** Availability of reliable internet access and compatible devices for both patients and providers.
* **Physician training and comfort:** The willingness of physicians to utilize telemedicine platforms.
* **Insurance coverage:** The extent to which insurance providers reimburse for telemedicine services.
* **Patient acceptance:** The willingness of patients to embrace virtual healthcare options.

Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their breast cancer care programs may offer advantages, such as:

* **Virtual consultations:** Allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits.
* **Remote monitoring:** Enabling physicians to monitor patients' health conditions remotely, providing early detection of potential problems.
* **Online educational resources:** Providing patients with access to educational materials about breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

**Mental Health Resources:**

The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges are common. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care.

The assessment of mental health resources includes:

* **On-site counseling services:** The availability of therapists or counselors within medical practices or affiliated clinics.
* **Referral networks:** The ability of physicians to refer patients to qualified mental health professionals in the community.
* **Support groups:** The availability of support groups for breast cancer patients, providing opportunities for peer support and emotional sharing.
* **Access to psychiatric care:** The availability of psychiatrists for patients who may require medication or other specialized treatment.

The integration of mental health services into breast cancer care can improve patient outcomes by addressing the emotional and psychological needs of patients, promoting overall well-being, and enhancing the effectiveness of treatment.

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the healthcare landscape in McKeesport, specifically within ZIP code 15135, reveals both challenges and opportunities. While physician shortages and geographical constraints may present barriers to accessing care, the presence of dedicated medical practices, the potential for telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources can mitigate these challenges. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for individuals seeking breast cancer care in this area.

For a more in-depth, visually driven understanding of the healthcare resources in your area, including the location of medical practices, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a valuable tool for navigating the healthcare landscape and making informed decisions about your health.