15327, Dilliner, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15327, Dilliner, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.80 percent of the residents in 15327 has some form of health insurance. 49.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.80 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 15327 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 266 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15327. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 357 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 720 health care providers accessible to residents in 15327, Dilliner, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Dilliner, PA (ZIP Code 15327)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially concerning breast cancer care, is crucial for communities. This analysis focuses on Dilliner, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15327), examining the availability of primary care physicians and evaluating the overall landscape of breast cancer support within the area. While a definitive “Breast Cancer Score” is complex to calculate precisely due to data limitations and the multifaceted nature of healthcare, this analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the factors influencing breast cancer care within this specific geographic area.

Dilliner, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The fundamental starting point is the availability of primary care physicians. These physicians act as gatekeepers, providing initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing support for patients. The physician-to-patient ratio in Dilliner and the surrounding areas is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased wait times for appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can be used to estimate this ratio, but it's essential to acknowledge the limitations of this data. It does not always reflect the actual availability of physicians accepting new patients or specializing in women's health.

Further complicating the picture is the geographical isolation of Dilliner. Rural communities often struggle with physician recruitment and retention, impacting the availability of specialized care, including oncologists and surgeons. Patients may need to travel significant distances to access these specialists, adding to the burden of treatment and potentially delaying crucial interventions. The presence of local hospitals or clinics offering comprehensive women's health services is paramount. These facilities can provide mammograms, biopsies, and initial treatment options, significantly improving access to care.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of primary care is also a key factor. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular screenings and patient education, are more likely to detect breast cancer early, leading to better survival rates. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment is another critical aspect. Practices that adhere to these guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Cancer Society, demonstrate a commitment to providing the best possible care.

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge the gap in healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Dilliner. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists, can reduce the need for travel and improve patient convenience. The adoption rate of telemedicine among physicians in the area is therefore an important consideration. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, patient familiarity with technology, and the willingness of physicians to embrace this new approach.

Mental health support is 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. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for patients' well-being. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

Identifying standout practices in the area requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. Factors to consider include physician qualifications, patient reviews, and the range of services offered. Practices that have a dedicated women's health program, offer comprehensive breast cancer screening services, and have a strong track record of patient satisfaction are likely to be considered standout practices. It's important to note that publicly available information may be limited, and direct outreach to local practices may be necessary to gather comprehensive data.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in Dilliner is complex. The limited population and rural location present significant challenges. The availability of primary care physicians, the distance to specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources all play a crucial role in shaping the patient experience. Early detection, prompt treatment, and comprehensive support are vital for improving outcomes.

While a definitive “Breast Cancer Score” for this area is not feasible within the constraints of this analysis, the factors outlined here provide a framework for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. Further investigation, including direct outreach to local practices and a deeper analysis of publicly available data, is needed to provide a more precise assessment. This analysis should be considered a starting point for community members seeking to understand the landscape of breast cancer care in Dilliner and advocate for improvements in access and quality.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Dilliner and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant geographic data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of healthcare services and help you visualize the factors discussed in this analysis.