15377, West Finley, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15377, West Finley, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.62 percent of the residents in 15377 has some form of health insurance. 38.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.93 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 15377 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 155 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15377. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 90 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 415 health care providers accessible to residents in 15377, West Finley, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15377 and Primary Care in West Finley**

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 15377 and the broader context of primary care availability in West Finley, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis seeks to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering various factors crucial to patient outcomes. The score, though not a numerical value, will reflect the relative strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this area, focusing on access, quality, and support.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. West Finley, as a rural area, faces challenges in primary care availability. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to delayed diagnoses, longer wait times for appointments, and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings. The score for primary care availability in West Finley, therefore, begins with a cautious assessment, acknowledging the potential for limited access. Proximity to larger towns and cities, like Washington, PA, could mitigate this to some extent, but travel time and transportation limitations must be considered.

A crucial element of the "Breast Cancer Score" is the presence of dedicated practices and specialists. Within ZIP Code 15377, the availability of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast cancer, radiologists experienced in mammography and other imaging techniques, and radiation oncologists is paramount. The score will be influenced by the presence of these specialists within the immediate vicinity or within a reasonable travel distance. The presence of multidisciplinary clinics, where various specialists collaborate to provide comprehensive care, would significantly boost the score.

Standout practices, if any, within the area would further enhance the "Breast Cancer Score." These practices are defined by their commitment to patient-centered care, use of advanced technologies, and positive patient outcomes. They might be recognized for their participation in clinical trials, their adoption of innovative treatment approaches, or their strong patient support programs. Identifying these practices is essential for patients seeking the best possible care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The "Breast Cancer Score" will reflect the extent to which local practices and hospitals utilize telemedicine platforms. This includes not only video conferencing but also the use of remote monitoring devices and patient portals for communication and information sharing.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for patients battling breast cancer. The emotional toll of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be immense. The "Breast Cancer Score" must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, specializing in oncology. The integration of mental health services within the healthcare system, whether through on-site therapists or referral networks, will positively influence the score. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, also plays a crucial role in providing emotional support and fostering a sense of community.

The availability of resources for financial assistance is another critical factor. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients face financial burdens. The "Breast Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability of financial counseling services, patient assistance programs, and information about grants and other forms of financial support. The presence of navigators who can help patients navigate the complexities of insurance coverage and financial assistance programs will also positively impact the score.

The quality of diagnostic imaging services is a key component. The "Breast Cancer Score" must assess the availability of state-of-the-art mammography equipment, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and the expertise of radiologists in interpreting these images. The accreditation of imaging centers by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) is an important indicator of quality. The speed with which imaging results are delivered to patients and their physicians is also a factor.

Patient education and awareness are essential elements of the "Breast Cancer Score." The score will consider the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and educational programs, that provide information about breast cancer prevention, early detection, treatment options, and survivorship. The involvement of local healthcare providers in community outreach programs and health fairs will also positively impact the score.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is also influenced by the availability of supportive care services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lymphedema therapy. These services are essential for helping patients manage the side effects of treatment and improve their quality of life. The score will consider the availability of these services within the area or within a reasonable travel distance. The presence of rehabilitation centers specializing in cancer rehabilitation will significantly boost the score.

The coordination of care is a key component of the "Breast Cancer Score." The score will assess the extent to which healthcare providers communicate and collaborate to provide seamless care for patients. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to share patient information, the presence of care coordinators who can help patients navigate the healthcare system, and the involvement of patients in their care decisions. The score will also consider the availability of patient navigators who can assist patients in coordinating their appointments, managing their medications, and accessing other supportive services.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 15377 and the context of primary care in West Finley is likely to be moderate. While the presence of specialist physicians and the proximity to hospitals in nearby cities might offer some advantages, the limitations in primary care availability in West Finley, the potential for limited access to specialized services, and the need for enhanced telemedicine adoption and mental health resources will likely temper the score. Continuous improvement and expansion of healthcare services are essential to improve the lives of those impacted by breast cancer in this area.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in this area, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the distribution of the population, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare options.