15636, Harrison City, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15636, Harrison City, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.26 percent of the residents in 15636 has some form of health insurance. 15.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.35 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 15636 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 988 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15636. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 461 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,319 health care providers accessible to residents in 15636, Harrison City, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Harrison City, PA (ZIP Code 15636)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Harrison City, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15636), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of care, considering factors from physician-to-patient ratios to the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of any breast cancer care system lies in accessible primary care. Harrison City's primary care availability is a critical starting point. Evaluating this involves assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, along with their patient load. A higher physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer patients per doctor, generally translates to more readily available appointments and more personalized care. Conversely, a lower ratio could signal potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments, especially for preventative screenings and follow-up care. The analysis must also consider the geographical distribution of PCPs, ensuring that residents across Harrison City have reasonable access to care, regardless of their location.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and their adherence to established breast cancer screening guidelines. Practices actively promoting early detection through patient education and consistent follow-up are crucial. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs and specialists is also essential. This streamlines the care process, allowing for better coordination and reducing the potential for errors.

Specialized care is equally vital. The analysis must identify the presence of oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and other specialists within the region. Proximity to specialized cancer centers and hospitals equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as 3D mammography and radiation therapy, significantly impacts the quality of care. The assessment should also consider the expertise of these specialists. Are they board-certified? Do they have specific experience in breast cancer treatment? Are they actively involved in research and staying abreast of the latest advancements in the field?

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The use of telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering these services, score higher in this analysis.

The integration of mental health resources into breast cancer care is increasingly recognized as essential. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in cancer-related issues. Do primary care practices and specialist centers offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers? The presence of support groups and patient navigation programs, which provide emotional support and practical assistance, also contributes to a higher score.

Standout practices within the area deserve special recognition. Identifying practices that excel in specific areas, such as patient education, innovative treatment approaches, or exceptional patient satisfaction, is crucial. This could involve highlighting practices with strong patient testimonials, those that have implemented patient-centered care models, or those actively involved in community outreach programs. These practices serve as models for other healthcare providers in the area.

In evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the analysis will compare the number of PCPs and specialists in 15636 to the estimated population of the area. This will be compared to regional and national averages to assess the relative availability of care. The analysis will also consider the availability of support staff, such as nurses, medical assistants, and patient navigators, who play a crucial role in providing comprehensive care.

A comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' will be assigned based on the weighted assessment of these factors. Each factor will be assigned a specific weight based on its importance in the overall quality of care. For example, the availability of specialists and advanced treatment technologies might carry a higher weight than the availability of telemedicine services. The final score will provide a clear indication of the overall quality of breast cancer care in Harrison City.

The analysis will also delve into the insurance landscape. The acceptance of various insurance plans by healthcare providers in the area is critical. Are providers in-network with major insurance carriers? Do they offer financial assistance programs for patients who are uninsured or underinsured? Access to affordable care is a fundamental aspect of quality healthcare.

The analysis must also consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural competency can significantly affect a patient's ability to access and benefit from healthcare services. The analysis will identify any disparities in care and highlight initiatives aimed at addressing these issues.

This 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis is not just a static assessment. It is designed to be a living document, updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new providers enter the market, new technologies emerge, and treatment guidelines evolve, the analysis will be updated to ensure its accuracy and relevance.

The final score will be presented in a clear and concise format, along with a summary of the key findings and recommendations for improvement. This information will be valuable for residents seeking breast cancer care, healthcare providers looking to improve their services, and policymakers seeking to enhance the healthcare system in Harrison City.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and gain a deeper understanding of the data, explore the power of location intelligence with CartoChrome maps.