15459, Markleysburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15459, Markleysburg, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.97 percent of the residents in 15459 has some form of health insurance. 39.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.28 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 15459 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 455 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15459. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 241 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 448 health care providers accessible to residents in 15459, Markleysburg, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Markleysburg, PA (ZIP Code 15459)

Markleysburg, Pennsylvania, a small community nestled within ZIP code 15459, presents a unique challenge when assessing its healthcare landscape, particularly regarding breast cancer care. A comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis requires a deep dive into various factors, from physician availability and access to specialized care to the integration of technology and mental health support. Given the rural nature of the area, this analysis will highlight the specific strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem, focusing on primary care availability and the resources accessible within and surrounding the ZIP code.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system lies in robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, crucial for early detection, screening, and referral. In Markleysburg, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced access to preventative care, all of which negatively impact the Breast Cancer Score. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and relevant healthcare databases would be essential to ascertain the precise physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 15459 and the surrounding areas. This analysis needs to determine if the local community has adequate primary care resources.

Beyond the sheer number of PCPs, the quality and accessibility of these practices are paramount. Are the practices accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for appointments? Do the PCPs offer comprehensive health screenings, including breast exams and referrals for mammograms? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) and the interoperability of these systems are also crucial. EHRs streamline patient information, improving communication between doctors and facilitating efficient referrals to specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists. The Breast Cancer Score would be significantly impacted by the presence of modern practices.

Furthermore, the geographical isolation of Markleysburg necessitates a focus on specialty care access. While the community might not have its own oncologist or radiology center, the proximity to these services is essential. The analysis would need to identify the nearest hospitals and clinics offering these specialized services. Travel time, transportation options, and the availability of patient support services, such as transportation assistance programs, all factor into the overall accessibility of care. The Breast Cancer Score must reflect the community’s proximity to specialized facilities.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can bridge the gap in access to specialists and improve the quality of care in rural areas. The analysis would examine the availability of telemedicine services within the primary care practices and specialist centers serving the Markleysburg community. Does the primary care practice offer virtual consultations for routine checkups or follow-up appointments? Are specialists available for virtual consultations for second opinions or management of chronic conditions? The integration of telemedicine can positively influence the Breast Cancer Score by improving access to care and reducing travel burdens.

Mental health resources are integral to breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is crucial for patients' well-being and recovery. The analysis would need to assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community or in nearby areas. Are there support groups specifically for breast cancer patients? Are mental health services covered by insurance and readily accessible? The presence of these resources can have a direct impact on the Breast Cancer Score, as they contribute to the holistic care of patients.

Another factor to consider is the availability of patient education and support programs. Does the community have access to educational materials about breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment? Are there programs that provide financial assistance or other forms of support to patients? The analysis would need to identify any such programs and assess their accessibility to the residents of Markleysburg. These programs can significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score by empowering patients with knowledge and resources.

Specific practices in the area, if any, that stand out for their commitment to breast cancer care, would be identified. This could include practices that have implemented innovative screening programs, have a dedicated breast cancer navigator, or actively participate in clinical trials. Highlighting these standout practices can help identify best practices and provide a roadmap for improvement. The analysis would also assess the level of community outreach and education efforts undertaken by healthcare providers.

Overall, the Breast Cancer Score for Markleysburg, PA (ZIP code 15459) would likely be influenced by the rural setting. The analysis would require a thorough examination of all the factors mentioned, with particular attention to the availability of primary care, access to specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health support. The score would reflect the community's strengths and weaknesses in breast cancer care, highlighting areas for improvement and opportunities for growth. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape and identify strategies to improve access to quality care for residents facing this challenging disease.

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