15423, Coal Center, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15423, Coal Center, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.15 percent of the residents in 15423 has some form of health insurance. 50.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.25 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 15423 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 663 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15423. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 353 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,200 health care providers accessible to residents in 15423, Coal Center, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Coal Center, PA (ZIP Code 15423)**

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Coal Center, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15423) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and assess the resources available for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, ultimately culminating in a "Breast Cancer Score" for the region. The score will reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support.

The foundation of good breast cancer care begins with accessible and quality primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Coal Center is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and less time for each patient, potentially impacting preventative care like regular screenings. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio in 15423, obtained from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or local healthcare organizations, is essential for an accurate assessment. This data would be compared to national and regional averages to determine if Coal Center faces a shortage or surplus of primary care providers.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care significantly influences breast cancer outcomes. This involves evaluating the practices and their adherence to established guidelines for breast cancer screening, such as those recommended by the American Cancer Society (ACS) or the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that actively promote and facilitate mammograms, clinical breast exams, and discussions about family history are crucial. Identifying standout practices within the zip code requires examining patient reviews, physician ratings, and accreditations. Are there any practices recognized for their patient-centered care, proactive screening programs, or integration of specialized services?

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, particularly for initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some types of counseling, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals facing geographical barriers or mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine options, including the types of services offered and the ease of use of the platforms, is essential. Does the local primary care network offer telehealth appointments? Are there specialists in the region who utilize telemedicine for consultations or follow-up care?

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score. This involves assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the area. Are there readily available support groups, either in-person or online, specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors? Are there partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers to facilitate referrals and coordinated care? The integration of mental health services into the care pathway is vital for patient well-being and improved outcomes.

The Breast Cancer Score will consider all these factors, along with the availability of diagnostic and treatment services within a reasonable radius of Coal Center. This includes access to mammography facilities, breast surgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The proximity to these services and the efficiency of the referral process are crucial. The score will also factor in the presence of specialized breast cancer centers or programs, which often offer a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to care.

To arrive at a final score, a weighted system would be employed. The physician-to-patient ratio might account for a certain percentage of the score, with a favorable ratio contributing positively. The quality of primary care, based on adherence to screening guidelines and patient satisfaction, would be another significant factor. Telemedicine adoption would contribute positively, while the availability of mental health resources would be weighted heavily. The proximity and accessibility of diagnostic and treatment services, along with the presence of specialized programs, would also be crucial components.

The final Breast Cancer Score for Coal Center (15423) would be a composite metric reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the region. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for breast cancer patients, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement. This score would serve as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for improvement.

This analysis, and the resulting Breast Cancer Score, is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and healthcare models emerging. Therefore, ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential. Regularly updating the score, incorporating new data, and adapting to changes in the healthcare environment will ensure its continued relevance and usefulness.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Coal Center and surrounding areas, explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, providing a clear and intuitive understanding of the healthcare infrastructure.