15346, Mather, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15346, Mather, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.46 percent of the residents in 15346 has some form of health insurance. 54.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.19 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 15346 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 80 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15346. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 97 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,858 health care providers accessible to residents in 15346, Mather, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15346 and Primary Care Availability in Mather**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 15346, encompassing the Mather community, requires a nuanced understanding of breast cancer care accessibility. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a composite metric reflecting various factors crucial for optimal patient outcomes. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care environment in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of a strong Breast Cancer Score rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screening recommendations, risk assessments, and referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. In Mather, specifically, we need to evaluate the density of PCPs, taking into account the demographics of the area, including age and socioeconomic factors, which can influence healthcare utilization. The Breast Cancer Score will be negatively impacted if PCP availability is limited.

Specialist availability is equally important. Access to qualified breast cancer specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists, is paramount. The Breast Cancer Score considers the proximity of these specialists, their board certifications, and their experience in treating breast cancer. The presence of a comprehensive breast care center within a reasonable distance significantly elevates the score. This center should offer a multidisciplinary approach, integrating all necessary services under one roof for patient convenience and coordinated care. This includes access to advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and ultrasound.

Standout practices within 15346 will be assessed based on their commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This involves evaluating their patient outcomes, adherence to national guidelines, and participation in clinical trials. Practices that actively engage in community outreach programs, providing education and awareness about breast cancer prevention and early detection, will receive higher scores. This might involve offering free or low-cost screening events, partnering with local organizations, and providing culturally sensitive care to address the specific needs of the community.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The Breast Cancer Score will evaluate the adoption of telemedicine by practices in 15346. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, improving access to care for patients who may face transportation challenges or geographical limitations. The availability of virtual support groups and educational resources through telemedicine also contributes positively to the score. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and innovation.

The psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be profound. The Breast Cancer Score places significant weight on the availability of mental health resources. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, offering on-site counseling or referrals to qualified professionals, will receive higher scores. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, provides patients with a crucial network of emotional support and shared experiences.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the presence of patient navigation services. Patient navigators are healthcare professionals who guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, assisting with appointments, insurance issues, and access to resources. The availability of patient navigation services streamlines the patient journey, reducing stress and improving outcomes.

The quality of diagnostic imaging services is a crucial component of the Breast Cancer Score. The availability of high-quality mammography equipment, including 3D mammography, is essential for early detection. The accreditation of imaging centers by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Radiology, is a positive indicator. The expertise of radiologists in interpreting mammograms and other imaging studies is also a critical factor.

Finally, the Breast Cancer Score considers the availability of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial constraints can create barriers to care. Practices that offer information about financial assistance programs, grants, and other resources to help patients afford treatment and medications will receive higher scores.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 15346 and primary care availability in Mather is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of numerous factors. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. While a precise score requires detailed data analysis, this framework provides a foundation for evaluating the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in this specific geographic area.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 15346, including the location of physicians, specialist availability, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the factors discussed in this analysis, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare.