15642, Irwin, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15642, Irwin, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.56 percent of the residents in 15642 has some form of health insurance. 31.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.96 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 15642 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,244 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15642. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,987 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,264 health care providers accessible to residents in 15642, Irwin, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer is a significant health concern, and access to quality healthcare is crucial for early detection and treatment. This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care within ZIP code 15642, encompassing the town of Irwin, Pennsylvania. We will examine factors influencing a "Breast Cancer Score" for physicians in the area, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The foundation of a strong Breast Cancer Score lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Irwin's primary care landscape directly impacts the score. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, providing routine checkups, screenings, and referrals. High PCP availability correlates with increased opportunities for early detection through mammograms and other preventative measures. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are critical. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per patient, typically suggests better access to care. This allows for more frequent appointments, shorter wait times, and more personalized attention. Conversely, a high ratio can strain resources, potentially leading to rushed appointments and decreased time for patient education and support. Accurate data on physician-to-patient ratios within 15642 is essential for a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score. Publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and local healthcare organizations can provide insights into these ratios.

Identifying standout practices is another key component. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. First, the availability of on-site mammography services is highly advantageous. It streamlines the screening process, making it more convenient for patients. Second, the adoption of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), can improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection. Third, practices with a strong track record of patient education and support are vital. This includes providing information about risk factors, self-exams, and treatment options.

Telemedicine adoption is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, offer virtual consultations, and provide remote monitoring. For the Breast Cancer Score, evaluating the extent to which practices in 15642 offer telemedicine services is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. Telemedicine can also be used for post-operative follow-up care and support groups, enhancing the overall patient experience.

Mental health resources are integral to the Breast Cancer Score. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients through this difficult journey. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or readily provide referrals to mental health providers will receive a higher score. This includes assessing the availability of support groups, individual therapy, and resources for managing anxiety and depression.

The evaluation of these factors will contribute to a composite "Breast Cancer Score" for physicians in 15642. The score will be based on a weighted average of the following: PCP availability and physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of on-site mammography and advanced imaging, the adoption of telemedicine services, and the availability of mental health resources. Practices that excel in these areas will receive higher scores, indicating a stronger commitment to providing comprehensive breast cancer care.

To determine the overall Breast Cancer Score, a detailed analysis of each practice is necessary. This analysis would involve collecting data from various sources, including practice websites, patient reviews, and publicly available healthcare data. It would also involve contacting practices directly to gather information about their services and resources. This data would then be used to calculate the weighted average score, providing a clear picture of the quality and availability of breast cancer care in 15642.

The final score would be a valuable tool for patients seeking breast cancer care in Irwin. It would help them identify practices that offer the highest level of care, taking into account factors such as access, technology, and support services. This would empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and improve their chances of early detection and successful treatment.

In conclusion, evaluating the Breast Cancer Score for physicians in 15642 requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates a thorough assessment of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the services offered by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive analysis will provide a valuable tool for patients seeking quality breast cancer care in the Irwin area.

For a detailed, interactive map visualizing the healthcare landscape in 15642, including physician locations, services offered, and practice scores, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Accessing this information can significantly aid in your healthcare decisions.