15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 15464 has some form of health insurance. 41.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.83 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 15464 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 169 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15464. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 256 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 756 health care providers accessible to residents in 15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15464 & Mill Run Primary Care**

Analyzing healthcare resources in ZIP Code 15464, encompassing the Mill Run area, requires a nuanced approach. We need to assess the availability and quality of primary care, considering its impact on early breast cancer detection and overall patient well-being. This analysis will focus on key indicators: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive breast cancer care landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, limited access to preventative screenings, and a potentially overburdened healthcare system. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. In ZIP Code 15464, we need to determine the specific primary care physician (PCP) density. This involves identifying the number of PCPs actively practicing within the zip code and comparing it to the resident population. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards can be utilized, though their accuracy is often limited by the dynamic nature of medical practices.

The availability of specialists, particularly those involved in breast cancer care, is also critical. While this analysis focuses on primary care, access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists within a reasonable distance is essential. Transportation limitations, prevalent in rural areas, can exacerbate the impact of limited specialist availability. A comprehensive assessment must consider the proximity to specialized cancer centers and the ease of patient access.

Identifying standout practices within 15464 is paramount. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, patient education, and a patient-centered approach. We can look for practices that:

* Offer convenient appointment scheduling, including evening or weekend hours.
* Actively promote breast cancer screening guidelines, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams.
* Employ patient navigators to assist patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment.
* Have established relationships with local hospitals and specialist networks.
* Demonstrate patient satisfaction through online reviews and testimonials.

Examining the adoption of telemedicine is crucial, especially in a rural area like Mill Run. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve patient access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The analysis should identify:

* The number of practices offering telehealth services.
* The types of telehealth services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring).
* The ease of use and accessibility of these services for patients.
* Patient satisfaction with telehealth experiences.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is vital. The analysis should assess:

* The availability of mental health providers within the zip code or nearby areas.
* The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients.
* The integration of mental health services within primary care practices.
* The affordability and accessibility of mental health resources.

The analysis should consider how these factors interact. For example, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio might still struggle if it lacks telemedicine capabilities or access to mental health resources. A practice might excel in patient education but be limited by the lack of nearby specialist support. The interplay of these elements determines the overall quality of breast cancer care available.

Gathering data for this analysis requires a multi-faceted approach. Publicly available data sources, such as the CMS Physician Compare tool, can provide basic information on physician locations and specialties. Online directories, such as Healthgrades and Zocdoc, can offer insights into practice characteristics and patient reviews. Local hospital websites and community resources can provide information on specialist networks and support services. Direct outreach to local practices can provide more detailed information on services offered, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 15464 should reflect a holistic assessment. It should consider the availability and accessibility of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The score should be transparent and easily understandable, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The analysis should conclude with actionable recommendations. This might include suggestions for improving physician-to-patient ratios, expanding telemedicine services, or increasing access to mental health resources. It should also highlight areas where further investigation is needed.

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 15464. By focusing on key indicators and utilizing a multi-faceted approach, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to residents and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and analytical tools to help you understand the complex healthcare landscape and make data-driven decisions.