15765, Penn Run, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15765, Penn Run, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.31 percent of the residents in 15765 has some form of health insurance. 41.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.42 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 15765 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 291 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15765. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 427 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 318 health care providers accessible to residents in 15765, Penn Run, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Penn Run, PA (ZIP Code 15765)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care access and related resources within ZIP code 15765 (Penn Run, Pennsylvania), focusing on primary care physician availability, healthcare practice characteristics, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health services. This assessment aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," though a single numerical score is not feasible given the complexity of factors. Instead, we offer a qualitative evaluation, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in the context of breast cancer care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. In Penn Run, assessing primary care availability is crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise, up-to-the-minute data is often difficult to obtain publicly, sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards provide valuable insights. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care doctors, could potentially create barriers to timely screenings, referrals, and overall preventative care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups and earlier detection of potential issues. We must consider the geographic distribution of these physicians, too. Are they concentrated in a central location, or are they spread throughout the area, making access easier for residents in more rural parts of the ZIP code?

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the existing primary care practices are significant. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate varying schedules? Do they actively promote breast cancer screening guidelines, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams? Practices that proactively engage in patient education and screening programs are more likely to contribute to early detection and improved outcomes. Furthermore, the presence of a dedicated care coordinator within a primary care practice can be a significant asset. This individual can help navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, schedule appointments, coordinate referrals to specialists, and provide emotional support to patients.

A key element of modern healthcare delivery is the adoption of telemedicine. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some types of physical therapy can dramatically improve access to care, especially for residents in rural areas like Penn Run. Telemedicine can reduce travel time and costs, making it easier for patients to receive timely care. In the context of breast cancer, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments after surgery or treatment, providing ongoing support and addressing patient concerns. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to offer a higher level of convenience and access to care.

Mental health support is an integral component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a critical factor. Does the local primary care practice offer on-site mental health services, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Are there support groups or counseling services available locally, specifically tailored to the needs of breast cancer patients and survivors? Access to these resources can significantly improve the overall well-being and quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment or recovery.

Identifying standout practices in Penn Run requires a deeper dive into individual practice characteristics. This includes examining patient reviews, assessing the qualifications and experience of the physicians, and evaluating the practice's commitment to patient education and preventative care. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients, have a strong track record of early detection, and offer comprehensive care are likely to be considered standout practices. These practices often prioritize patient communication, provide clear and concise information about treatment options, and offer a supportive and compassionate environment.

The integration of technology, beyond telemedicine, is another important consideration. Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient care and facilitate communication between healthcare providers? Do they offer online patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their care team? Practices that embrace technology are often better equipped to provide efficient, coordinated, and patient-centered care.

In evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" for Penn Run, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of this type of assessment. The availability of data can vary, and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The score is not a definitive measure of quality but rather a reflection of the accessibility and availability of resources. The score should be viewed as a starting point for further investigation and should be used in conjunction with other sources of information, such as patient reviews and consultations with healthcare professionals.

The overall assessment for Penn Run, PA (ZIP Code 15765) suggests that while there are likely primary care providers available, a deeper analysis is needed to determine the physician-to-patient ratio and assess the specific characteristics of each practice. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources are critical factors that require further investigation. The identification of standout practices and the integration of technology are also important considerations.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Penn Run, and to visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, providing a valuable tool for assessing access to care and identifying potential gaps in services.