15520, Acosta, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15520, Acosta, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.09 percent of the residents in 15520 has some form of health insurance. 37.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 91.93 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 15520 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 28 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15520. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 27 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 750 health care providers accessible to residents in 15520, Acosta, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Acosta, PA (ZIP Code 15520)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the geographical confines of Acosta, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15520), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access and the broader healthcare ecosystem. The objective is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients and identify potential areas for improvement. The assessment considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in a comprehensive breast cancer care model.

Acosta, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area often translates to a lower density of healthcare providers compared to more urban settings. This necessitates a careful examination of the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly concerning PCPs, who serve as the initial point of contact and gatekeepers to specialized care. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying critical screenings and diagnoses. This, in turn, can negatively impact patient outcomes. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau will be used to estimate these ratios.

The analysis will delve into the existing primary care practices within the 15520 ZIP code and surrounding areas. This includes evaluating the size of the practices, the range of services offered, and the types of insurance accepted. Practices with a strong focus on preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings (mammograms, clinical breast exams), will be given higher consideration. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as mammography, is a significant advantage, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for these essential tests. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education and empowerment, providing resources and support for navigating the complexities of breast cancer care, will also be highlighted.

Identifying standout practices requires a multi-faceted approach. We will look at patient reviews, physician qualifications, and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and maintain accreditation from reputable organizations will be considered as demonstrating a commitment to excellence. This includes looking at the qualifications of the physicians, including board certifications and specializations in areas related to breast health. Practices that offer a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care with specialists like oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, will be viewed favorably.

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor in assessing healthcare accessibility in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are considered to be more patient-centered and accessible. The analysis will investigate the extent to which telemedicine is being utilized in the 15520 ZIP code, specifically for breast cancer-related services. This includes assessing the availability of virtual follow-up appointments, remote consultations with specialists, and access to educational resources online.

Mental health support is an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a significant emotional impact on patients, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the Acosta community and surrounding areas. This includes assessing the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their breast cancer care model, providing referrals to mental health professionals and offering support groups, will be viewed positively. The proximity of these resources and their accessibility to patients are also important factors.

The analysis will also consider the availability of financial assistance programs and resources for patients. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial barriers can prevent patients from accessing the care they need. The analysis will investigate the availability of programs that provide financial assistance for screenings, treatment, and medications. This includes looking at the availability of grants, insurance coverage options, and patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Acosta, PA (15520) will be a composite of these factors. It will reflect the overall availability, accessibility, and quality of breast cancer care within the community. The score will be a relative assessment, comparing the resources available in Acosta to those in other similar rural communities. The analysis will identify areas of strength and weakness, providing insights into how the healthcare system can be improved to better serve the needs of breast cancer patients.

The limitations of this analysis include the availability of data. Publicly available data on physician-to-patient ratios and practice-specific information may be limited, requiring reliance on secondary sources and estimations. Furthermore, patient satisfaction and experience are critical components of care quality, but quantifying these aspects can be challenging. The analysis will attempt to incorporate patient reviews and testimonials where available. The analysis will also be limited by the dynamic nature of healthcare. Practices and services are constantly evolving, so the findings will reflect the situation at the time of the analysis.

In conclusion, the availability and quality of breast cancer care in Acosta, PA (15520) are influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the rural setting presents challenges in terms of access, the community's commitment to healthcare, the quality of the primary care practices, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health services all play a crucial role in shaping the patient experience. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of breast cancer care in Acosta, offering insights for patients, providers, and policymakers.

For a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Acosta, PA, including the locations of practices, hospitals, and support services, we recommend exploring the power of geospatial data. **Visit CartoChrome maps** to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.