15480, Smock, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15480, Smock, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.51 percent of the residents in 15480 has some form of health insurance. 55.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.32 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 15480 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 281 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15480. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 510 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 251 health care providers accessible to residents in 15480, Smock, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15480 & Smock, PA

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care within ZIP code 15480, encompassing Smock, Pennsylvania, and examines the availability of primary care, a crucial component of early detection and ongoing support. The evaluation considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical elements in a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and qualified primary care physicians. In Smock, the availability of primary care physicians significantly influences the overall quality of care. A robust primary care system facilitates regular screenings, early detection, and timely referrals to specialists. Conversely, a scarcity of primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer patient outcomes. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio in Smock and the surrounding area is vital. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau can provide insights into this ratio, allowing for an assessment of the accessibility of primary care services.

The presence of specialized breast cancer care providers, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, within or easily accessible to ZIP code 15480 is another critical factor. The proximity of these specialists to patients can significantly impact the speed and efficiency of diagnosis and treatment. Identifying the number of specialists practicing in the area, their affiliations with hospitals and clinics, and their individual areas of expertise is crucial. Practices known for their expertise in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be considered "standout practices." These practices often employ advanced diagnostic tools, participate in clinical trials, and offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators and support groups.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists may be limited. The adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in ZIP code 15480 can improve access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves identifying the types of services offered remotely, the technologies used, and the patient population served. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing treatment, allowing them to receive care and support without the burden of frequent travel.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups can help patients cope with the psychological and emotional aspects of their illness. Evaluating the availability of these resources involves identifying local mental health providers, support groups, and programs that specifically address the needs of breast cancer patients. Integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patient well-being and quality of life.

The assessment of breast cancer care in ZIP code 15480 requires a multi-faceted approach, considering the interplay of various factors. The evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialist practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources provides a holistic view of the healthcare landscape. Analyzing the data collected from various sources, including healthcare provider directories, hospital websites, and public health data, can help create a "Breast Cancer Score" for the area. This score can then be used to identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system and to inform strategies for improvement.

The "Breast Cancer Score" should also consider the demographics of the population served, including age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. These factors can influence the incidence of breast cancer, access to care, and patient outcomes. Understanding the specific needs of the population can help healthcare providers tailor their services to meet those needs effectively.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of breast cancer care in ZIP code 15480 necessitates a thorough examination of several interconnected elements. The availability of primary care, the presence of specialist practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all essential components of a comprehensive care system. By analyzing these factors, a "Breast Cancer Score" can be developed, providing valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. This assessment can then be used to inform strategies for improvement and to ensure that all patients have access to the best possible care.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 15480 and the surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and insightful way to visualize and analyze healthcare data, allowing you to make informed decisions about your health and access the resources you need.