15629, East Vandergrift, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15629, East Vandergrift, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.27 percent of the residents in 15629 has some form of health insurance. 37.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.84 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 15629 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15629. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 77 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,009 health care providers accessible to residents in 15629, East Vandergrift, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: East Vandergrift (ZIP Code 15629)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within East Vandergrift, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15629) necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis assesses the availability, quality, and accessibility of healthcare resources, focusing on primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support, all within the context of breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a crucial role in preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In East Vandergrift, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and, to a lesser extent, gynecologists. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from healthcare directories and insurance provider networks, are essential to accurately calculate this ratio. Furthermore, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, after-hours care, and weekend availability significantly impacts accessibility.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative care, including adherence to breast cancer screening guidelines. This includes mammography recommendations for women aged 40 and older, clinical breast exams, and patient education about risk factors and self-exams. Assessing this requires examining patient satisfaction surveys, practice accreditations (e.g., NCQA), and the availability of patient education materials. Practices that actively promote preventative care and offer comprehensive patient education programs are more likely to contribute to early detection and improved outcomes.

Identifying "standout practices" within East Vandergrift requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This could include practices that have a high percentage of patients up-to-date on their mammograms, those that offer advanced imaging technologies (e.g., 3D mammography), or those that participate in clinical trials. Information from patient reviews, physician referrals, and awards or recognitions can help identify these standout practices. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated nurse navigators, who assist patients through the complex process of diagnosis and treatment, is a significant advantage.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the availability of technology support for patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience and potentially reduce healthcare costs.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment cannot be overstated. Integrating mental health resources into the care continuum is crucial. This involves assessing the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., therapists, counselors, psychiatrists) within the area and their willingness to work with breast cancer patients. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, or that have established referral networks with mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, educational resources, and patient advocacy programs can significantly improve the patient experience.

The analysis should consider the presence of a comprehensive cancer center or hospital within a reasonable distance from East Vandergrift. Proximity to a facility offering advanced diagnostic and treatment options, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is a critical factor. This includes evaluating the center's accreditation status, its experience in treating breast cancer, and its access to clinical trials. The availability of specialized breast cancer surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists is also essential.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for East Vandergrift would be a composite score based on all the above factors. It would reflect the overall quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care in the area. The score would be a relative measure, allowing for comparisons with other geographic areas. A higher score would indicate better access to care, higher quality services, and a more supportive environment for breast cancer patients.

This analysis would be an ongoing process, requiring regular updates and revisions to reflect changes in healthcare practices, physician availability, and technological advancements. The ultimate goal is to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, helping them make informed decisions about breast cancer care in East Vandergrift. The analysis would also highlight areas for improvement, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources.

To visualize and understand the geographic distribution of these resources and identify potential gaps in care, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice locations, and the availability of various services, allowing for a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape in East Vandergrift and the surrounding areas.