15363, Strabane, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15363, Strabane, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15363 has some form of health insurance. 14.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.04 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 15363 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 217 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15363. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 94 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,783 health care providers accessible to residents in 15363, Strabane, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Strabane, PA (ZIP Code 15363)

This analysis provides a detailed evaluation of breast cancer care resources and primary care availability in Strabane, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15363). It aims to assess the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the area, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes, including access to primary care, physician density, specialized services, and support systems. The analysis will focus on available data, acknowledging the limitations of publicly accessible information and the need for ongoing, granular research.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection and consistent screening are paramount. In Strabane, assessing primary care availability involves scrutinizing the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita. This metric, the physician-to-patient ratio, is a critical indicator of access. A higher ratio, reflecting fewer patients per doctor, generally signifies better access and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, combined with physician directories, can provide an initial estimate of this ratio. However, the analysis must also consider factors like insurance acceptance, patient volume, and the specific training of the PCPs. Are they up-to-date on the latest breast cancer screening guidelines? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists?

Beyond the raw numbers, the analysis must delve into the operational aspects of primary care practices. Are appointments readily available, or are patients facing weeks-long delays? Do practices offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate varying schedules? The availability of same-day or urgent care appointments is also significant, particularly for patients experiencing concerning symptoms. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can streamline communication and improve care coordination. Practices utilizing these technologies are often better equipped to manage patient data, facilitate referrals, and provide timely information.

The presence of specialized breast cancer services within or near Strabane significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." This includes access to oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast procedures, radiation oncologists, and diagnostic imaging centers equipped with mammography, ultrasound, and MRI capabilities. The proximity of these specialists and facilities directly affects the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. The analysis should identify the closest hospitals and clinics offering these services, evaluating their reputation, accreditation, and patient satisfaction scores. Furthermore, the availability of multidisciplinary care teams, comprising physicians from various specialties, is crucial for comprehensive treatment planning.

Standout practices in the area would be those that excel in several key areas. These might include practices with exceptional physician-to-patient ratios, demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research related to breast cancer would also be noteworthy, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and advancements. Additionally, practices that actively promote patient education and empowerment, providing resources and support for navigating the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, would earn high marks.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The analysis should assess the extent to which primary care practices and specialists in Strabane offer telehealth services. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, improving access to care and reducing the burden of travel for patients. The types of telehealth services offered, such as video conferencing, secure messaging, and remote patient monitoring, should be considered. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow and demonstrate positive patient outcomes would be recognized.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological impact of a diagnosis and treatment can be significant. The analysis should evaluate the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the Strabane area. Are these resources readily accessible, and do they specialize in addressing the unique challenges faced by breast cancer patients? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, such as offering on-site counseling or facilitating referrals to specialized providers, is highly desirable.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Strabane will be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, access to specialists, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources will be assigned relative weights based on their perceived importance. The final score will provide a snapshot of the area's strengths and weaknesses in breast cancer care. It is important to remember that this score is a general indicator and does not replace individual patient needs and experiences.

Data limitations are a crucial consideration. Publicly available data may not always provide a complete picture of the healthcare landscape. Private practice information, insurance coverage specifics, and patient satisfaction surveys are often difficult to obtain. The analysis will rely on the best available data, acknowledging any gaps or limitations. Further research, including direct contact with healthcare providers and patient advocacy groups, would be beneficial to refine the score and provide a more comprehensive assessment.

This analysis is intended to provide a starting point for understanding the breast cancer care environment in Strabane, PA. It highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and improvement in access to care, specialized services, and support resources. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, patients can make informed decisions about their care and advocate for improvements in the community.

For a visual representation of physician locations, primary care availability, and other healthcare resources in Strabane, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15363), we recommend exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, providing a valuable tool for patients and healthcare providers alike.