15771, Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15771, Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.28 percent of the residents in 15771 has some form of health insurance. 33.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.62 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 15771 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15771. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 186 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 289 health care providers accessible to residents in 15771, Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania.

The evaluation of breast cancer care access and quality within the ZIP code 15771, encompassing the community of Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania, demands a multifaceted approach. This analysis goes beyond simple physician listings, delving into critical aspects such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine utilization, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, particularly concerning breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.

One of the fundamental indicators of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, specifically oncologists and surgeons specializing in breast cancer, within the 15771 ZIP code presents a challenge. Publicly available data sources, like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, provide population estimates but often lack granular physician data. A comprehensive analysis would require accessing databases such as the American Medical Association (AMA) Physician Masterfile or utilizing specialized healthcare analytics platforms. This data would then be compared against the population of Rochester Mills to calculate the ratio, revealing the potential for patient overload or adequate access. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians, could translate to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially, less favorable patient outcomes.

Beyond simple numbers, the characteristics of local medical practices play a crucial role. Are there any standout practices in the area? Identifying practices with a demonstrated commitment to breast cancer care involves scrutinizing factors such as accreditation by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer, participation in clinical trials, and the availability of multidisciplinary care teams. These teams typically include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and oncology nurses, ensuring a holistic approach to patient care. Practices with a strong focus on patient education, support groups, and survivorship programs also warrant recognition. Furthermore, the presence of advanced diagnostic technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and access to genetic counseling and testing, are vital for early detection and personalized treatment strategies.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas like Rochester Mills. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients facing geographical barriers or mobility limitations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration requires investigating which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services provided remotely, and the availability of technical support for patients. Practices that have successfully adopted telemedicine can improve patient satisfaction and potentially reduce the burden on in-person appointments.

The often-overlooked aspect of breast cancer care is mental health support. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Therefore, assessing the availability of mental health resources is crucial. This includes evaluating the presence of on-site therapists, referrals to local mental health professionals, and access to support groups specifically for cancer patients. Practices that proactively address the psychological needs of their patients demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, improving overall patient outcomes and quality of life.

The analysis of breast cancer care in Rochester Mills requires a deeper dive into the specific practices within the area. Without access to detailed practice information, it is challenging to identify standout practices. However, the evaluation should consider factors such as: accreditation, multidisciplinary care teams, advanced diagnostic technologies, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Rochester Mills, and their capacity to effectively manage patients with breast cancer concerns, is another critical consideration. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care. Their ability to conduct thorough examinations, order appropriate screenings (mammograms, etc.), and make timely referrals to specialists is essential. The evaluation should assess the number of PCPs in the area, their willingness to provide breast cancer screening and counseling, and their referral patterns to specialists. Strong collaboration between PCPs and specialists is vital for seamless patient care.

The primary care availability in Rochester Mills, as it relates to breast cancer, can be evaluated through several key indicators. This would include the number of PCPs per capita, the average wait times for appointments, and the accessibility of after-hours care. Furthermore, the analysis should examine the PCP's familiarity with breast cancer screening guidelines and their willingness to discuss risk factors and preventative measures with patients.

The evaluation of breast cancer care in Rochester Mills should consider the geographical challenges of the area. Rural communities often face transportation barriers, making it difficult for patients to access healthcare services. The analysis should assess the availability of transportation assistance programs, such as ride-sharing services or volunteer driver programs, to help patients get to their appointments. Additionally, the proximity of the nearest comprehensive cancer centers and hospitals equipped with specialized breast cancer care units should be considered.

In conclusion, the assessment of breast cancer care in Rochester Mills requires a comprehensive and nuanced approach. It necessitates a detailed analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This information is essential for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rochester Mills and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and access to resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform can provide a valuable spatial perspective on the availability of breast cancer care services in the region.