15552, Meyersdale, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15552, Meyersdale, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.71 percent of the residents in 15552 has some form of health insurance. 39.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.67 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 15552 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,368 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15552. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,233 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 438 health care providers accessible to residents in 15552, Meyersdale, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Meyersdale, PA (ZIP Code 15552)

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer care within Meyersdale, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15552) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will consider factors crucial to a patient’s journey, from initial screening to ongoing support, ultimately aiming to provide a ‘Breast Cancer Score’ assessment. This score, however, is not a numerical value, but a comprehensive evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of early detection is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). The availability of PCPs in Meyersdale is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a primary indicator. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to delayed appointments, fewer preventative screenings, and ultimately, a poorer prognosis for potential breast cancer patients. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local hospital systems is essential to understanding the current PCP-to-patient ratio. This includes assessing the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, the average patient load per physician, and the wait times for appointments.

Beyond sheer numbers, the type and quality of primary care matter. Do local PCPs actively promote and facilitate breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, including radiologists and oncologists? Are they knowledgeable about current breast cancer guidelines and treatment options? Evaluating these aspects requires examining practice websites, interviewing local healthcare providers, and reviewing patient testimonials (while respecting patient privacy).

Standout practices within Meyersdale deserve recognition. These might be characterized by their commitment to patient education, their use of technology to improve patient care, or their strong community outreach programs. Identifying these practices involves reviewing their online presence, including their patient portal features, telehealth capabilities, and patient reviews. The presence of specialized programs, such as those focused on women’s health or preventative medicine, is also a significant factor.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical area. The ability to consult with specialists remotely can bridge geographical barriers and provide access to expertise that might not be readily available locally. The availability of telehealth appointments for initial consultations, follow-up visits, and even mental health support significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. Assessing this involves examining the telehealth capabilities of local practices and hospitals, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient’s emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer (individual therapy, group therapy, support groups), and their experience working with cancer patients. Partnerships between local healthcare providers and mental health organizations are also a positive indicator.

The availability of specialized care is also a factor. While Meyersdale may not have a comprehensive cancer center, the proximity to larger hospitals and cancer treatment facilities is crucial. This involves assessing the travel time to these facilities, the types of services they offer (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy), and the availability of support services (e.g., patient navigators, financial assistance).

In assessing the overall Breast Cancer Score, the analysis must consider the interconnectedness of these factors. A high PCP-to-patient ratio, for example, is less concerning if telemedicine provides access to specialists. Similarly, strong mental health support can mitigate the emotional challenges associated with a lack of local specialized care.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served by the local healthcare system. Are there specific programs or services tailored to the needs of different populations, such as older adults or those from underserved communities? This includes examining language accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and financial assistance programs.

The presence of patient advocacy groups and community outreach programs also contributes to a positive Breast Cancer Score. These organizations can provide valuable support, education, and resources to patients and their families. This includes assessing the presence of local chapters of national organizations like the American Cancer Society or Susan G. Komen, and the types of programs they offer.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the overall healthcare infrastructure of Meyersdale. This includes assessing the quality of local hospitals and clinics, the availability of diagnostic equipment (e.g., mammography machines), and the level of coordination between different healthcare providers.

Finally, the Breast Cancer Score is not a static measure. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes monitoring changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new treatments and support services.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in Meyersdale, PA. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and community organizations to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that all residents have access to the best possible care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Meyersdale and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the available resources and their accessibility.