15757, Mahaffey, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15757, Mahaffey, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.00 percent of the residents in 15757 has some form of health insurance. 57.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.56 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 15757 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 229 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15757. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 411 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,225 health care providers accessible to residents in 15757, Mahaffey, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Mahaffey, PA (ZIP Code 15757)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within the Mahaffey, Pennsylvania area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 15757. The evaluation considers various factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The ultimate goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, reflecting the overall landscape for patients seeking breast cancer care in this region.

One of the most critical aspects of breast cancer care is timely access to primary care physicians. These physicians serve as the initial point of contact, providing crucial screenings, referrals, and ongoing management. In Mahaffey, the availability of primary care is a significant factor. Data analysis reveals a limited number of primary care practices within the immediate ZIP code. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potential difficulties in establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care provider.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of healthcare access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can strain the system, leading to increased workloads for doctors and potentially impacting the quality of care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in 15757 requires analyzing population data and the number of practicing primary care physicians. The initial assessment suggests a ratio that may be less favorable than the national average, highlighting the importance of exploring alternative care models.

Beyond primary care, access to specialized care is crucial for breast cancer patients. This includes access to oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists. The availability of these specialists within the Mahaffey area is a critical consideration. While the immediate ZIP code may not have these specialists, the proximity to larger regional healthcare centers, such as those in nearby towns or cities, is a significant factor. The travel time to these centers, the availability of transportation, and the acceptance of insurance plans are all essential elements in the overall assessment.

The characteristics of the primary care practices themselves contribute to the overall Breast Cancer Score. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening, such as mammograms, is a critical factor. Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings, adhering to the latest recommendations from organizations like the American Cancer Society, are viewed more favorably. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share information with specialists also contribute to a higher score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in the Mahaffey area is an important consideration. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring, potentially improving access to care and reducing the need for travel. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies are likely to receive a higher score.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health resources is essential for patients. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The availability of these resources within the Mahaffey area, or within a reasonable distance, is an important factor in the overall assessment. Practices that actively screen for mental health needs and provide referrals to appropriate services will be viewed more favorably.

The overall quality of care is also influenced by the patient experience. This includes factors such as the ease of scheduling appointments, the wait times in the waiting room, the communication skills of the healthcare providers, and the overall level of patient satisfaction. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care and actively seek feedback from patients are likely to provide a higher quality of care.

The assessment of "standout practices" involves identifying those that excel in specific areas of breast cancer care. This could include practices with a strong track record of early detection, those that offer comprehensive support services, or those that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their practice. Identifying these standout practices can provide valuable insights for patients seeking care in the Mahaffey area.

Analyzing insurance coverage is a crucial aspect of this assessment. The acceptance of various insurance plans by primary care practices and specialists in the Mahaffey area is a significant factor in accessibility. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, are more likely to provide access to care for a broader population.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the score. This ongoing evaluation will help to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that patients in the Mahaffey area have access to the best possible breast cancer care.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for the Mahaffey, PA (15757) area reflects a landscape with some challenges in terms of primary care availability and specialist access. The evaluation highlights the need for improved access to primary care, greater telemedicine adoption, and enhanced mental health support. The proximity to regional healthcare centers and the characteristics of existing practices are also key factors.

For a visual representation of this data, including practice locations, physician-to-patient ratios, and access to specialists, consider exploring the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. These maps provide a comprehensive and dynamic view of the healthcare landscape in the Mahaffey area, empowering you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your breast cancer care.