15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.24 percent of the residents in 15772 has some form of health insurance. 58.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.29 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 15772 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 350 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15772. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 285 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,086 health care providers accessible to residents in 15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses the quality of breast cancer care and primary care availability within ZIP code 15772, encompassing Rossiter, Pennsylvania, with a focus on physician-to-patient ratios, practice distinctions, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform healthcare decisions and potential improvements.

The initial consideration is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this accurately requires data on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, practicing within the ZIP code, and the population of Rossiter. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with professional directories, can provide this information. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and increased patient burden. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially improved patient outcomes. This ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare access.

Assessing the practices within 15772 requires a deeper dive. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Reputation, gleaned from patient reviews and testimonials, is crucial. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) for mammography services is a strong indicator of quality. Furthermore, the availability of specialized services, such as breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, within a practice or network is critical for comprehensive breast cancer care. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, facilitating coordinated care, is a significant advantage.

Telemedicine adoption is another key area of evaluation. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals significantly impacts access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide greater convenience, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient adherence to treatment plans. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the accessibility of patient portals for communication and information sharing. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine are better positioned to serve their patients effectively.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Practices that offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Evaluating this aspect requires investigating the availability of on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with mental health providers, and referrals to support groups and other resources. The presence of these resources indicates a proactive approach to addressing the psychological needs of patients.

Specific practice examples within 15772, while difficult to definitively identify without detailed local knowledge, can be extrapolated based on general trends. Practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, such as hospitals or regional networks, may have an advantage in terms of resources, specialized services, and telemedicine adoption. Independent practices, on the other hand, may offer a more personalized approach and potentially stronger patient-physician relationships. The availability of these options depends on the specific healthcare landscape of Rossiter.

The analysis of primary care availability in Rossiter is interwoven with the breast cancer care assessment. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventive care, screening services, and referrals to specialists. The accessibility of PCPs, measured by physician-to-patient ratios, appointment availability, and insurance acceptance, directly impacts the early detection of breast cancer and the overall health of the community. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments, extended hours, and weekend availability can significantly improve access to care.

The quality of breast cancer screening services is a critical element. The availability of high-quality mammography services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is essential for early detection. The presence of board-certified radiologists specializing in breast imaging and the use of advanced imaging technologies contribute to improved diagnostic accuracy. Practices that adhere to rigorous quality standards and participate in accreditation programs demonstrate a commitment to providing the best possible care.

Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging for patients. Practices that provide patient navigation services, assisting patients with appointments, insurance, and other administrative tasks, can significantly improve the patient experience. Patient navigators can help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and available resources, reducing stress and improving outcomes. The availability of patient navigation services is a valuable indicator of patient-centered care.

The integration of technology extends beyond telemedicine. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates efficient communication between healthcare providers, improves care coordination, and allows patients to access their medical information easily. Practices that have implemented robust EHR systems are better equipped to provide coordinated and comprehensive care. The ability for patients to access their records and communicate with their providers through a patient portal is a significant advantage.

The availability of financial assistance programs and resources is another important consideration. Cancer treatment can be expensive, and patients may face significant financial burdens. Practices that provide information about financial assistance programs, such as grants, scholarships, and payment plans, demonstrate a commitment to supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. The ability to connect patients with resources to help manage the financial impact of cancer care is a crucial element of comprehensive care.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care and primary care availability in Rossiter requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice distinctions, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of screening services, patient navigation, and financial assistance. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform healthcare decisions and potential improvements. The specifics of each practice within 15772 would require a localized investigation.

To visualize and further analyze this complex data, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help to create interactive visualizations, allowing for the mapping of physician locations, practice locations, and the distribution of healthcare resources within the ZIP code. This visual representation can reveal patterns and insights that are not readily apparent from tabular data, aiding in a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rossiter and beyond.