15312, Avella, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15312, Avella, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.04 percent of the residents in 15312 has some form of health insurance. 40.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.57 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 15312 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 969 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15312. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 627 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,535 health care providers accessible to residents in 15312, Avella, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15312 & Primary Care in Avella

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 15312 (Avella, Pennsylvania) concerning breast cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers primary care accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all factors influencing a patient's journey from screening to survivorship. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon accessible and high-quality primary care. In Avella, evaluating primary care availability is crucial. This involves assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the area and their capacity to accept new patients. A low PCP-to-patient ratio could indicate potential delays in accessing routine checkups, preventative screenings, and initial consultations, all of which are critical for early detection and intervention in breast cancer. Furthermore, the availability of evening or weekend appointments, or urgent care options, can significantly impact a patient's ability to promptly address any concerns.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes evaluating the practice's commitment to preventative care, such as adhering to recommended breast cancer screening guidelines (mammograms, clinical breast exams) and educating patients about risk factors and self-exams. Practices that proactively engage in patient education and offer comprehensive health assessments demonstrate a higher level of commitment to overall patient well-being.

The presence of specialized breast cancer services within or near ZIP code 15312 significantly elevates the quality of care. This encompasses access to board-certified oncologists, breast surgeons, radiation oncologists, and radiologists specializing in breast imaging. Proximity to these specialists reduces travel burdens and allows for timely access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options. The availability of multidisciplinary care, where specialists collaborate on a patient's treatment plan, is a hallmark of high-quality breast cancer care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. Ideally, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population in Avella should be favorable, ensuring that patients can readily access a PCP for routine care and referrals. A shortage of PCPs can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as oncologists and breast surgeons, within a reasonable distance is equally important. A low ratio of specialists to patients could necessitate travel to larger urban centers, adding to the stress and inconvenience for patients.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors like reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the ability of healthcare providers to integrate virtual care into their practice workflows. Practices that have successfully adopted telemedicine can potentially improve patient convenience and reduce barriers to care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology support is crucial. These professionals can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges associated with the disease and its treatment. The availability of support groups and educational programs can also provide valuable resources for patients and their families.

Identifying "standout practices" within ZIP code 15312 requires a deeper dive into individual physician profiles and practice characteristics. This includes reviewing patient reviews, assessing the practice's commitment to preventative care, and evaluating their integration of technology, such as electronic health records and patient portals. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous quality improvement are likely to provide a higher level of care.

The healthcare landscape in Avella is likely influenced by its proximity to larger cities. Patients may travel to Pittsburgh for more specialized care. This necessitates an understanding of the referral patterns and the ease with which patients can navigate the healthcare system.

In assessing the overall breast cancer score for doctors in ZIP code 15312 and primary care availability in Avella, it is important to acknowledge the complexities of healthcare access. This analysis emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that considers all aspects of care, from primary care to specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Avella and gain a more granular understanding of physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care, we encourage you to utilize the power of spatial analysis. Visualize the data and gain insights through the use of CartoChrome maps.