15658, Ligonier, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15658, Ligonier, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.59 percent of the residents in 15658 has some form of health insurance. 38.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.59 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 15658 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,369 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15658. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,170 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,591 health care providers accessible to residents in 15658, Ligonier, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ligonier, PA (ZIP Code 15658)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 15658, encompassing Ligonier, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. It focuses on primary care physician (PCP) availability, the presence of breast cancer specialists, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score aims to provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about breast cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through routine screenings and referrals to specialists. In Ligonier, assessing PCP availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed care. Researching the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code, coupled with population data, is essential to determine this ratio. Furthermore, the analysis considers the acceptance of new patients by local practices, as well as the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This includes the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening, such as mammograms. Practices that proactively remind patients of their screening schedules and offer convenient scheduling options demonstrate a commitment to preventative care. Examining the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability is also vital. EHR systems facilitate the seamless sharing of patient information between PCPs and specialists, ensuring continuity of care and reducing the risk of errors.

The presence of breast cancer specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is another critical factor. Proximity to these specialists significantly impacts access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options. The analysis identifies the locations of these specialists within and around Ligonier, assessing travel times and the availability of specialized services, such as breast biopsies, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The reputation of these specialists and their affiliations with reputable hospitals or cancer centers are also evaluated, considering factors like board certifications, experience, and patient reviews.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by local practices can enhance access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations. The analysis investigates the extent of telemedicine integration in Ligonier, including the availability of virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists. This includes assessing the types of services offered via telemedicine, such as follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations regarding test results. The presence of telehealth platforms and the ease of use for patients are also considered.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, making access to mental health resources crucial. The analysis explores the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the Ligonier area. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, their specializations, and their willingness to accept new patients. The analysis also considers the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and cancer treatment centers, as well as the availability of support groups and other resources for patients and their families.

Standout practices within the Ligonier area are identified based on their commitment to patient care, innovation, and community involvement. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate excellence in several areas, such as patient satisfaction, the adoption of advanced technologies, and participation in community outreach programs. These practices often serve as models for other healthcare providers, contributing to the overall improvement of breast cancer care in the region.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Ligonier is derived from a weighted combination of the factors discussed above. Each factor is assigned a weight based on its relative importance in determining the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care. The score is then calculated based on the performance of the healthcare providers and resources in the area. This score provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and weakness.

The analysis also considers the presence of ancillary services that support breast cancer care. This includes access to diagnostic imaging centers, pharmacies, and rehabilitation services. The availability of these services within the local community enhances convenience and improves the overall patient experience.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the affordability of healthcare services. This includes examining the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices, as well as the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may struggle to afford the cost of care.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" is a dynamic measure that can change over time. Healthcare providers constantly evolve, and new resources become available. Regular updates to the analysis ensure that the score reflects the current state of breast cancer care in Ligonier.

This analysis provides a valuable resource for individuals seeking breast cancer care in Ligonier, Pennsylvania. It offers insights into the availability, quality, and accessibility of healthcare services in the area, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. The information presented can be used to identify the best healthcare providers and resources for their specific needs.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Ligonier, including the locations of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a comprehensive and user-friendly way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your area.