15732, Creekside, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15732, Creekside, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.16 percent of the residents in 15732 has some form of health insurance. 43.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.52 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 15732 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 287 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15732. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 329 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,468 health care providers accessible to residents in 15732, Creekside, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Creekside, PA (ZIP Code 15732)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Creekside, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15732) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering various factors crucial for patient well-being, including physician availability, quality of care, access to mental health support, and the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in relation to breast cancer treatment and support. This assessment will not be a rigid numerical score, but rather a qualitative evaluation based on available data and reasonable assumptions.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system is the availability of qualified medical professionals. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios is a critical starting point. In the context of breast cancer, this translates to assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists per capita within and immediately surrounding the 15732 ZIP code. Data from the US Census Bureau, combined with information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and professional medical directories, is essential to determine these ratios. A low ratio of specialists, particularly oncologists and surgeons, would significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score, potentially indicating delays in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The proximity of these specialists, even if not directly within the ZIP code, is a key consideration. Travel time to access specialized care is a significant factor for patient well-being.

Primary care physicians play a pivotal role in breast cancer care, acting as the first point of contact for patients, facilitating screenings, and providing referrals to specialists. Assessing primary care availability in Creekside involves examining the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the average wait times for appointments, and the range of services offered. The presence of PCPs who are actively involved in breast cancer screening programs, such as mammograms, is a positive indicator. The availability of PCPs who are knowledgeable about breast cancer risk factors, family history, and genetic predispositions is also crucial. A strong primary care foundation enhances the Breast Cancer Score by ensuring early detection and timely intervention.

Identifying standout medical practices within and near Creekside is another essential component of the analysis. This involves researching practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This research would involve reviewing patient reviews, examining the types of treatments offered (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgical options), and assessing the integration of multidisciplinary care teams. Practices that are accredited by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer, would receive higher marks. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, like 3D mammography, also contributes positively to the score. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research initiatives demonstrate a commitment to advancing breast cancer treatment.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important, especially for patients living in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and provide remote consultations with specialists. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption in Creekside involves determining which medical practices offer virtual appointments for breast cancer-related consultations, follow-up care, and support groups. Practices that utilize telemedicine for patient education and remote monitoring would receive a higher score. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, allowing them to receive certain types of care from the comfort of their homes.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor in the Breast Cancer Score. This involves assessing the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in breast cancer-related issues. The presence of mental health professionals within medical practices or in the local community is a positive indicator. The accessibility of these resources, including the acceptance of insurance and the availability of virtual therapy options, is also important. Support groups, both in-person and online, provide invaluable peer support and can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Creekside, PA (ZIP code 15732) is determined by weighing these factors. A high score would reflect a healthcare ecosystem characterized by: a sufficient number of specialists, strong primary care support, reputable medical practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score would indicate potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive breast cancer care. The availability of comprehensive data, including patient outcomes, would further refine the assessment.

This analysis is an overview. A more detailed assessment would involve a deeper dive into specific practice details, patient outcomes, and community resources. The Breast Cancer Score is not a static metric; it should be continuously evaluated and updated as the healthcare landscape evolves. The goal is to provide a snapshot of the current situation, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and community organizations to improve breast cancer care in Creekside.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Creekside, including the location of medical practices, specialists, and support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare resources available in the area.