The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15661, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 97.43 percent of the residents in 15661 has some form of health insurance. 26.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.35 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 15661 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 217 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15661. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 115 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,532 health care providers accessible to residents in 15661, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 15661, Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score | 72 |
---|---|
People Score | 26 |
Provider Score | 56 |
Hospital Score | 63 |
Travel Score | 79 |
15661 | Loyalhanna | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Loyalhanna, PA (ZIP Code 15661)
This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within the Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 15661. The assessment considers primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This holistic approach aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for the region, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.
The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Residents of Loyalhanna need easy access to physicians who can provide routine screenings, early detection referrals, and ongoing care coordination. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 15661 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. Information on the number of PCPs, including family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners, is crucial. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association, and local hospital systems is critical for this initial assessment.
Furthermore, the physician-to-patient ratio provides a critical measure of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and a potential strain on existing healthcare resources. Analyzing the population of the 15661 ZIP code alongside the number of available PCPs allows for the calculation of this crucial ratio. This ratio is then compared to regional and national averages to benchmark the local situation.
Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The analysis considers the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adherence to breast cancer screening guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Reviewing physician profiles, patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and practice websites provides insights into the services offered, including the availability of mammography referrals, patient education materials, and care coordination programs.
Identifying "standout practices" involves recognizing those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes practices that offer:
* **Dedicated breast health programs:** Some practices might have specialized programs or partnerships with local hospitals or cancer centers.
* **Advanced screening technologies:** The availability of 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) is a key consideration.
* **Patient navigation services:** These services help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, providing support and guidance throughout their journey.
* **Multidisciplinary care:** Practices that collaborate with specialists, such as radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons, offer a more integrated approach.
The analysis also investigates the extent of telemedicine adoption. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, has the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of telehealth services for breast cancer-related consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education is important. This includes examining the types of telehealth platforms used, the availability of virtual appointments, and the integration of these services into the overall care model.
Mental health support is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer can have a significant emotional impact on patients. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system. This includes:
* **Access to mental health professionals:** The number of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists in the area.
* **On-site counseling services:** Some practices may have therapists on staff or partnerships with mental health providers.
* **Support groups:** The availability of local support groups for breast cancer patients and survivors.
* **Integration of mental health services:** The extent to which mental health is integrated into the overall care plan.
The presence of these resources indicates a more comprehensive approach to patient well-being. The integration of mental health services alongside physical care significantly impacts the overall quality of life for breast cancer patients.
The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a single numerical value. It is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. Each factor is assigned a weight based on its importance in providing high-quality breast cancer care. The weights are subjective and based on expert opinion and best practices. The analysis then synthesizes the data, assigning a score for each factor and an overall score for the region. This score provides a snapshot of the local healthcare landscape and identifies areas of strength and weakness.
The final step involves providing recommendations for improvement. These recommendations might include:
* **Increasing the number of PCPs:** Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio.
* **Promoting telemedicine adoption:** Expanding access to care through virtual consultations.
* **Enhancing mental health services:** Integrating mental health support into the care model.
* **Encouraging collaboration:** Fostering partnerships between primary care practices, specialists, and hospitals.
The analysis concludes with a summary of the findings, highlighting the key strengths and weaknesses of the breast cancer care landscape in Loyalhanna, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15661). This information is valuable for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers.
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