15666, Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15666, Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.07 percent of the residents in 15666 has some form of health insurance. 42.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.58 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 15666 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,677 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15666. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,658 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,210 health care providers accessible to residents in 15666, Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Mount Pleasant, PA (ZIP Code 15666)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15666), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will focus on factors directly impacting breast cancer care, including physician availability, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey from diagnosis to survivorship. We will not generate a numerical "score" but rather provide a qualitative assessment of the landscape.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Early detection is paramount, and PCPs often play a critical role in screening and referrals. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Mount Pleasant is vital. While specific, real-time data is constantly changing, analyzing publicly available resources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) data, state medical board records, and local hospital affiliations can provide insights. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative care, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability, which could translate to better outcomes.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they clustered in one area, creating accessibility challenges for residents in other parts of Mount Pleasant? Are there underserved populations? Examining the geographical distribution of practices, using tools like geographic information systems (GIS), allows for a more nuanced understanding of access disparities. This includes identifying areas with limited access, which could be addressed through outreach programs or the strategic placement of healthcare facilities.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code requires evaluating several factors. This includes the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the range of services offered, and patient satisfaction. Online review platforms, although not always perfectly representative, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Examining the types of preventative care offered, such as mammogram scheduling and patient education programs, can also distinguish practices committed to proactive breast cancer screening. Furthermore, practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems often benefit from access to advanced technologies and specialists, which can improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telemedicine, and its continued integration into healthcare delivery offers significant benefits, particularly for breast cancer patients. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience, especially for patients undergoing treatment. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among PCPs in Mount Pleasant is crucial. This includes evaluating the types of platforms used, the range of services offered virtually, and the practice's ability to integrate telehealth into its existing workflows.

The mental health of breast cancer patients is often overlooked, but it is a critical component of their overall well-being. A cancer diagnosis can trigger anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Assessing the availability of these resources within Mount Pleasant, including their integration with primary care practices, is vital. This includes identifying partnerships between PCPs and mental health professionals, the availability of on-site counseling services, and the promotion of support groups.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized services, such as breast surgeons, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, is critical. While these specialists may not be located directly within the ZIP code, their proximity and ease of access are essential. This involves assessing the referral patterns of PCPs, the travel time to specialized centers, and the coordination of care between different healthcare providers. The existence of multidisciplinary care teams, which bring together specialists from various disciplines, can also significantly improve patient outcomes.

Another factor to consider is the socioeconomic makeup of the community. Lower-income populations often face greater barriers to healthcare, including limited access to insurance, transportation challenges, and a lack of health literacy. Understanding these socioeconomic factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions and ensuring equitable access to care. This includes assessing the availability of financial assistance programs, the provision of culturally competent care, and the promotion of health education initiatives.

Finally, the presence of community outreach programs and partnerships is a positive indicator. These programs can provide education, screening, and support services to underserved populations, improving early detection rates and patient outcomes. Assessing the involvement of local organizations, hospitals, and healthcare providers in community outreach initiatives is essential. This includes identifying the types of programs offered, the target populations served, and the impact of these programs on breast cancer care.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15666) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community outreach programs. While a numerical "score" is not provided, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Mount Pleasant and identify patterns in access to care, we encourage you to explore the possibilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform can help you visualize physician locations, identify underserved areas, and analyze other relevant data to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.