15693, Whitney, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15693, Whitney, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15693 has some form of health insurance. 29.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 15693 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 40 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15693. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 91 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,069 health care providers accessible to residents in 15693, Whitney, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Whitney, PA (ZIP Code 15693)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within the Whitney, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15693) area. The focus is on evaluating the resources available to patients, considering factors such as physician access, practice characteristics, technological integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights for residents and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

Whitney, PA, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The proximity to larger urban centers, like Pittsburgh, plays a significant role in shaping healthcare access. This analysis will consider how these factors influence the overall breast cancer care landscape.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care**

A critical aspect of assessing breast cancer care is the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for primary care physicians (PCPs), oncologists, and radiologists. The availability of PCPs is the gateway to preventative care, including screenings and referrals. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Similarly, the presence of oncologists and radiologists within a reasonable distance is crucial for timely specialist consultations and diagnostic imaging.

Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 15693 requires data from sources such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association. This information would reveal the number of physicians practicing within the area and the estimated population they serve. A higher ratio of patients per physician suggests potential access challenges. Analyzing the distribution of these physicians, including their specialties and the facilities they are affiliated with, is equally important.

The distance patients need to travel for appointments also significantly impacts access. This analysis will evaluate the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, considering travel times to hospitals, imaging centers, and oncology practices. Public transportation options and the availability of transportation assistance programs for those in need will also be considered.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various factors, including patient reviews, accreditations, and the scope of services offered. Practices with a strong focus on breast cancer care often have dedicated breast centers, offering comprehensive services such as mammography, ultrasound, biopsies, and surgical consultations.

These centers may also have multidisciplinary teams, bringing together radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and nurses to provide coordinated care. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) signifies adherence to high standards of quality and safety.

Furthermore, the use of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI, can enhance diagnostic accuracy. Practices that invest in these technologies demonstrate a commitment to providing state-of-the-art care. The availability of genetic counseling and testing services is also a crucial component, particularly for patients with a family history of breast cancer.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in the Whitney area can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring.

Evaluating the telemedicine capabilities of local practices involves assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring tools, and secure online portals for communication and information sharing. Practices that offer telemedicine services can reduce travel burdens for patients, improve convenience, and potentially facilitate earlier interventions.

The effectiveness of telemedicine also depends on the availability of reliable internet access in the community. This analysis will consider the digital infrastructure in the area and its impact on telemedicine adoption.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Access to mental health resources, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services, is crucial for addressing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with the disease.

This analysis will assess the availability of mental health professionals in the area, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients is also essential. These groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and connect with others who understand their journey.

Furthermore, practices that integrate mental health services into their breast cancer care programs demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This may involve offering on-site counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, or educational resources on coping with the emotional challenges of breast cancer.

**Overall Breast Cancer Score and Recommendations**

Based on the assessment of these factors, a "Breast Cancer Score" will be assigned to the Whitney, PA area. This score will reflect the overall availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare resources. The score will be based on a weighted evaluation of the key components discussed above, including physician access, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support.

Recommendations for improvement will be provided based on the analysis findings. These recommendations may include suggestions for increasing physician recruitment, expanding telemedicine services, improving access to mental health resources, and promoting community awareness about breast cancer prevention and early detection.

**Conclusion**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Whitney, PA, is essential for residents seeking quality breast cancer care. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the available resources and identifying areas for improvement. The findings can inform patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders in their efforts to enhance breast cancer care in the area.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Whitney, PA, including physician locations, facility locations, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the power of interactive mapping.

**Click here to explore the area's breast cancer resources using CartoChrome maps!**