15522, Bedford, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15522, Bedford, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.39 percent of the residents in 15522 has some form of health insurance. 41.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.00 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 15522 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,873 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15522. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,820 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 489 health care providers accessible to residents in 15522, Bedford, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Bedford, PA (ZIP Code 15522)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 15522 (Bedford, PA) and the surrounding area, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape, specifically regarding breast cancer detection and treatment, to inform residents and healthcare providers alike.

Bedford County, including the 15522 ZIP code, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Rural settings often face difficulties in attracting and retaining medical professionals, potentially impacting access to specialized care, including breast cancer services. This analysis will delve into these factors to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment.

**Primary Care Availability in Bedford**

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the gateway to healthcare, playing a crucial role in early breast cancer detection through regular screenings and referrals. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Bedford is paramount. Factors influencing access include the number of practicing PCPs, their appointment availability, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Furthermore, the geographical distribution of these physicians is critical, especially in a rural area where transportation can be a significant barrier. Are there enough PCPs to serve the population effectively? Do they have the capacity to handle the additional screening and referral demands that breast cancer awareness campaigns often generate?

The analysis would need to examine the patient-to-physician ratio within the 15522 ZIP code and surrounding areas. A higher ratio could indicate potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and, consequently, delayed diagnosis and treatment. This would also necessitate an evaluation of the average wait times for appointments, both for routine checkups and for urgent concerns.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A lower ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally indicates better access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio might suggest longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially less personalized care. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within the 15522 ZIP code and comparing it to state and national averages would provide a valuable benchmark. This comparison would illuminate whether Bedford faces a shortage of primary care physicians and specialists, particularly those involved in breast cancer care, such as radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons.

Data sources for this analysis could include the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the U.S. Census Bureau, and professional medical organizations. These sources would provide information on the number of practicing physicians, the population size, and the distribution of healthcare providers within the area.

**Standout Practices**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care provided by individual medical facilities and providers. This assessment would consider factors such as accreditation, patient satisfaction scores, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment (e.g., 3D mammography), and the expertise of the medical staff.

Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection and comprehensive breast cancer care would be highlighted. This might include practices that actively promote breast cancer screening, offer patient navigation services, and collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure seamless care coordination. Practices with a proven track record of positive patient outcomes and a dedication to patient education would be particularly noteworthy. The analysis would also consider the availability of support services, such as genetic counseling and survivorship programs.

**Telemedicine Adoption**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Examining the adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in Bedford is crucial. Are physicians offering virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, or consultations with specialists? Does the local healthcare system utilize telehealth platforms to connect patients with experts who may not be readily available locally?

The analysis would assess the availability of telehealth services for breast cancer-related care, including remote consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons. It would also consider the accessibility of these services, including the availability of internet access and the ease of use of telehealth platforms. The degree to which telemedicine is integrated into the overall care pathway would be examined, considering its impact on patient convenience and access to specialized expertise.

**Mental Health Resources**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The analysis would investigate the availability of mental health services within the 15522 ZIP code and surrounding areas, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups.

The assessment would consider whether healthcare providers offer mental health screenings and referrals to appropriate services. It would also evaluate the availability of specialized mental health support for breast cancer patients, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups tailored to the specific needs of those affected by the disease. The integration of mental health services into the overall breast cancer care pathway would be a key indicator of the quality of care.

**Conclusion**

This analysis, while conceptual, highlights the critical factors influencing breast cancer care in Bedford, PA (15522). The availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all play vital roles in ensuring that patients receive timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive support. A detailed investigation into these areas would provide a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve breast cancer care in the region.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Bedford, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.