15140, Pitcairn, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15140, Pitcairn, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.80 percent of the residents in 15140 has some form of health insurance. 62.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.95 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 15140 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 742 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15140. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 483 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,806 health care providers accessible to residents in 15140, Pitcairn, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15140 and Primary Care Availability in Pitcairn**

This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 15140 (relevant to doctors) and the primary care infrastructure of Pitcairn, Pennsylvania, a community that feeds into and utilizes the healthcare providers within that ZIP code. The goal is to assess the accessibility and quality of breast cancer-related services, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support. This is a complex undertaking, and the following represents a preliminary assessment based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends.

The evaluation starts with physician density. ZIP code 15140, like many suburban and semi-rural areas, may face challenges in physician-to-patient ratios. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This is particularly concerning for breast cancer, where early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health would be the primary sources to evaluate the physician-to-patient ratio.

The presence of standout practices is a critical component. Identifying practices with a strong focus on breast cancer care requires looking beyond general practitioner listings. Specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast procedures, and radiologists with expertise in mammography and breast imaging, are essential. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including genetic counseling, access to clinical trials, and support groups, are highly valuable. A review of practice websites, patient reviews, and professional directories (like the American Medical Association’s DoctorFinder) would be necessary to identify these standout providers.

Telemedicine adoption is another key area. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, and its use has expanded the accessibility of healthcare services. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health support. The availability of telemedicine services for breast cancer patients in 15140, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, would significantly improve access to care. Researching the websites of local practices and hospitals will reveal their telemedicine options.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as an integral part of cancer care. The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be profound. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is vital for patients’ well-being. Assessing the availability of these resources within 15140 requires looking at the presence of mental health clinics, the integration of mental health services within oncology practices, and the availability of support groups. The presence of social workers within practices is also a positive indicator.

Primary care availability in Pitcairn, the community that feeds into the healthcare providers in 15140, is a crucial factor. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients and play a vital role in preventative care, including breast cancer screenings. A shortage of PCPs in Pitcairn could lead to delayed screenings and diagnosis. An analysis of the number of PCPs practicing in Pitcairn, the average wait times for appointments, and the ability of patients to establish care with a PCP would be critical.

Assessing the availability of breast cancer screening services, such as mammography and ultrasound, is paramount. The presence of accredited imaging centers within 15140 and nearby areas is essential. The ability of patients to schedule mammograms easily and the availability of same-day or quick-turnaround results are important indicators of access. Data from local hospitals, imaging centers, and the American College of Radiology can provide this information.

Insurance coverage is another critical consideration. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices and hospitals is important for patients’ access to care. The availability of financial assistance programs for uninsured or underinsured patients is also a crucial factor. Researching the insurance plans accepted by local providers and the availability of financial assistance programs is vital.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine is also a factor. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) allows for better communication and coordination of care among healthcare providers. Patient portals that allow patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their doctors are also valuable. Examining the technology used by local practices and hospitals would be beneficial.

The quality of care provided by local healthcare providers is a key element. This can be assessed by reviewing patient satisfaction surveys, the outcomes of treatment, and the adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer care. The availability of these metrics would be helpful.

The overall breast cancer score for doctors in 15140 and primary care availability in Pitcairn is a complex calculation. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialists, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, primary care access, screening services, insurance coverage, technological integration, and the quality of care. A comprehensive assessment would involve gathering data from multiple sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and patient surveys.

This preliminary analysis highlights the key factors to consider when evaluating breast cancer care in the area. A more detailed assessment would provide a more accurate picture of the current state of healthcare services and identify areas for improvement. The information would be useful for patients seeking care, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the 15140 ZIP code and the surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and population demographics, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps offer an interactive and intuitive way to visualize healthcare data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the accessibility and availability of breast cancer care in your community.