15692, Westmoreland City, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15692, Westmoreland City, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.14 percent of the residents in 15692 has some form of health insurance. 50.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.98 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 15692 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 183 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15692. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 114 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,164 health care providers accessible to residents in 15692, Westmoreland City, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer is a significant health concern, and access to quality care is paramount. This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 15692 (Westmoreland City, PA) and the broader context of primary care availability in that area, aiming to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. The score considers various factors impacting patient access and the quality of care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Westmoreland City, the primary care physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced preventative care, and overall poorer health outcomes. Assessing this ratio requires data collection from various sources, including insurance providers, hospital systems, and state licensing boards. The ideal scenario is a ratio that allows for timely appointments and sufficient time for each patient during consultations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This includes the breadth of services offered, from routine checkups and screenings to chronic disease management. A high-quality primary care practice will emphasize preventative care, including regular mammograms and other breast cancer screening methods. The practices should also be able to provide care coordination with specialists, particularly oncologists and surgeons, if a breast cancer diagnosis is suspected or confirmed.

Identifying standout practices in the area is critical. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence in patient care, utilizing evidence-based practices and employing skilled healthcare professionals. Factors to consider include patient reviews, accreditations, and the adoption of innovative technologies. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to breast cancer treatment and prevention also deserve recognition. These standout practices serve as models for other providers and can significantly improve the quality of care available in the community.

Telemedicine has rapidly transformed healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption in Westmoreland City is a key component of the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially lowering healthcare costs. The availability of virtual consultations for breast cancer screenings, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services can significantly impact patient convenience and overall care. The score must assess the availability of telemedicine options and the ease with which patients can access these services.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health resources are therefore integral to the Breast Cancer Score. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the primary care practices or readily accessible in the community is a critical factor. These professionals can provide support for patients and their families, helping them cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. The score should also consider the availability of support groups, educational programs, and other resources that promote mental well-being.

Analyzing the data requires a multi-faceted approach. Data collection from healthcare providers, insurance companies, and public health agencies is essential. This data must be carefully analyzed to determine the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The analysis should also consider demographic factors, such as age, gender, and socioeconomic status, to ensure that the score accurately reflects the needs of the community.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static number. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking the arrival of new practices, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the availability of new treatments. The score should also be used to identify areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages or increasing the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to create a dynamic assessment that helps to improve the quality of breast cancer care in Westmoreland City.

The Breast Cancer Score should also be used to inform patients about their options. Patients should be able to easily access information about the quality of care available in their community, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This information can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improved access to care.

To provide a comprehensive assessment, the score should also consider the availability of specialized breast cancer services, such as surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. The proximity of these services to Westmoreland City is a crucial factor. Patients should have easy access to these specialists and be able to receive timely and effective treatment. The score should also consider the availability of support services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nutritional counseling.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score is a valuable tool for assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Westmoreland City. By considering various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, the score can help to identify areas for improvement and inform patients about their options. This data-driven approach can ultimately lead to better outcomes for patients and a healthier community.

If you are interested in visualizing this data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Westmoreland City and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform can provide a detailed and visually compelling representation of the data discussed in this analysis, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare.