15430, Dickerson Run, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15430, Dickerson Run, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.70 percent of the residents in 15430 has some form of health insurance. 39.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.98 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 15430 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 62 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15430. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 67 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,203 health care providers accessible to residents in 15430, Dickerson Run, Pennsylvania.

This analysis focuses on assessing the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP Code 15430, encompassing Dickerson Run, Pennsylvania, with a particular emphasis on primary care accessibility and related resources. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the quality and availability of care for individuals navigating breast cancer concerns. The analysis does not provide medical advice.

Evaluating the quality of breast cancer care necessitates a multi-faceted approach. It involves examining the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs), as they often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or requiring preventative screenings. Furthermore, the presence of specialized care, such as oncologists and surgeons, is crucial. The integration of telemedicine, mental health support, and the overall physician-to-patient ratio all contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.

Dickerson Run, nestled within ZIP Code 15430, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The rural nature of the area may impact access to specialized care and resources. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative screenings and timely diagnoses. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local healthcare provider directories, would be essential to determine the precise ratio. This data provides a baseline for evaluating the adequacy of primary care and specialized services.

Primary care availability is paramount. The ease with which residents can secure appointments with PCPs is a significant indicator of overall health access. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the geographic proximity of practices are all factors that affect accessibility. In Dickerson Run, the presence of multiple primary care clinics, both independently owned and affiliated with larger healthcare systems, would be a positive indicator. Conversely, a limited number of providers or practices that are consistently at capacity would present a challenge.

Standout practices, if any, would be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes offering a full range of services, from preventative screenings like mammograms to diagnostic procedures and referrals to specialists. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as free or low-cost screening events, would also be highly regarded. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, allowing for easy communication and access to medical information, is another key factor.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. Practices that offer telehealth appointments for consultations, follow-up visits, and even mental health counseling would be considered progressive and patient-centric. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care for individuals in Dickerson Run.

Mental health resources are an integral part of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential to support patients through their journey. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, would be highly beneficial. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, are also valuable resources for patients and their families.

Assessing the quality of care also involves evaluating the presence of specialized services. The availability of oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists within a reasonable distance is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to care, would be a significant advantage. This center would ideally provide access to advanced treatments, clinical trials, and support services.

The overall quality of breast cancer care in ZIP Code 15430 is a complex issue. It requires a thorough assessment of multiple factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The specific details of the healthcare landscape in Dickerson Run, including the number of providers, the services they offer, and the resources available, will ultimately determine the overall score. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the quality of care and identifying areas for improvement.

The availability of data is critical to this assessment. Publicly available information from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the U.S. Census Bureau, and local healthcare provider directories, combined with patient reviews and feedback, would provide a more complete picture. This data would allow for a more accurate evaluation of the healthcare environment and identify any gaps in care.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in Dickerson Run requires a comprehensive approach. The availability of primary care, the presence of specialized services, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources are all key factors. The specific details of the healthcare landscape, including the physician-to-patient ratio and the services offered by local practices, will ultimately determine the overall score.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Dickerson Run and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic locations, and the availability of specialized services, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's interactive maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare environment, enabling you to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community. Explore CartoChrome maps today to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare.