15558, Salisbury, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15558, Salisbury, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.87 percent of the residents in 15558 has some form of health insurance. 26.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.94 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 15558 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 572 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15558. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 321 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 369 health care providers accessible to residents in 15558, Salisbury, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Salisbury, PA (ZIP Code 15558)

Evaluating the quality of breast cancer care in Salisbury, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15558) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the expertise of individual physicians but also the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis will delve into 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, ultimately culminating in a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are crucial. In Salisbury, assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes evaluating the ease of scheduling appointments, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the overall patient satisfaction with the services provided. A shortage of PCPs or long wait times for appointments can significantly hinder timely diagnosis and treatment. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns is also a critical factor.

Physician-to-patient ratios provide a quantitative measure of healthcare access. A low ratio (more physicians per patient) generally indicates better access to care, potentially leading to earlier detection and more comprehensive treatment options. Conversely, a high ratio can strain resources, leading to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and a potential decline in the quality of care. Data on the physician-to-patient ratio in Salisbury, specifically for PCPs and specialists involved in breast cancer care (e.g., oncologists, radiologists, surgeons), is essential for a comprehensive assessment. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and state medical boards can be used to calculate these ratios.

Identifying standout practices within the region is crucial. This involves researching practices that specialize in breast cancer care, evaluating their accreditations (e.g., from the American College of Surgeons), and reviewing patient outcomes. Key indicators include the use of advanced diagnostic techniques (e.g., 3D mammography), adherence to national treatment guidelines, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices with a multidisciplinary approach, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and support staff, often provide more comprehensive care. Reviews and testimonials from patients can offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Salisbury. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services in Salisbury involves determining which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered (e.g., consultations, post-operative follow-ups), and the ease of use of the platform. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are an integral part of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Evaluating the availability of mental health support in Salisbury involves assessing the number of therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists practicing in the area, as well as the availability of support groups and mental health services specifically tailored to cancer patients. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being.

Synthesizing these factors allows for a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation based on the following: the availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Each factor is assigned a weight based on its relative importance, and the overall score reflects the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Salisbury. This score can be used to compare the healthcare landscape in Salisbury to other regions and to identify areas for improvement.

For example, a high score would indicate a strong network of primary care physicians, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of accredited breast cancer centers, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health support. Conversely, a low score would suggest limited access to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

The specific "Breast Cancer Score" for Salisbury, PA (ZIP code 15558) cannot be definitively stated without a dedicated, data-driven analysis. However, the framework outlined above provides a roadmap for conducting such an assessment. The availability of accurate and up-to-date data is critical for generating a reliable score. Publicly available information from government agencies, healthcare providers, and patient advocacy groups can be utilized to gather the necessary data.

The assessment of breast cancer care in Salisbury is an ongoing process. Healthcare landscapes evolve, and the quality of care is subject to change. Therefore, regular evaluations are essential to ensure that patients have access to the best possible care. Continuous monitoring of the factors discussed above, along with patient feedback, is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and promoting the delivery of high-quality breast cancer care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Salisbury, PA (ZIP code 15558) and explore the factors discussed in this analysis, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help visualize physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data points, providing a comprehensive overview of the healthcare resources available in the region. This can aid in understanding the accessibility of care and identifying potential gaps in service.