15777, Starford, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15777, Starford, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15777 has some form of health insurance. 27.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.63 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 15777 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15777. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 21 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 311 health care providers accessible to residents in 15777, Starford, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses breast cancer care availability and quality within ZIP code 15777, focusing on Indiana, Pennsylvania, and specifically considers primary care access within the town of Starford. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, aiming to offer a comprehensive perspective.

Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios is a crucial first step. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, including oncologists and surgeons, directly impacts access to timely screenings, diagnoses, and treatment. ZIP code 15777, a primarily rural area, may face challenges in this regard. National averages suggest a desired ratio of PCPs to patients, but rural areas often experience shortages. Data on the specific ratio within 15777 is essential. Publicly available resources, such as those from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can offer insights into physician shortages and areas of need. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could necessitate longer wait times for appointments and potentially delay crucial care.

The presence of standout practices in the region significantly influences the quality of breast cancer care. Identifying practices with a demonstrated commitment to breast cancer care requires examining several factors. These include the availability of advanced imaging technologies like mammography and MRI, the expertise of the medical staff, and the practice's affiliation with larger healthcare systems. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology, are highly desirable. Furthermore, accreditation by organizations such as the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) can be a strong indicator of quality and commitment to patient care. Researching the patient satisfaction scores and testimonials associated with different practices can also provide valuable insights.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices within 15777 is a critical factor to assess. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and even support groups, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, such as secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. Investigating the types of telemedicine services offered, the availability of virtual appointments, and the technical infrastructure in place provides a clearer picture of the telemedicine landscape.

The integration of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, is essential for addressing the psychological challenges associated with the disease. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Evaluating the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other mental health resources within the community is crucial.

Primary care availability in Starford, a town within the 15777 ZIP code, plays a pivotal role in early detection and overall health management. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients and are responsible for coordinating care, including breast cancer screenings. The accessibility of PCPs in Starford directly affects the likelihood of timely screenings and diagnoses. Assessing the number of PCPs practicing in Starford, their patient load, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments is important. A shortage of PCPs or long wait times can delay crucial screenings and potentially impact patient outcomes.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for doctors in 15777, and primary care availability in Starford, is a complex calculation. It requires integrating all the factors discussed. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with a high physician-to-patient ratio, exceptional practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, comprehensive mental health resources, and readily available primary care in Starford. Conversely, a low score would suggest potential challenges in accessing quality breast cancer care. The score should be interpreted with the understanding that it is a snapshot in time and that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving.

The process of gathering the data for this analysis involves multiple steps. Publicly available resources, such as the HRSA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state health departments, can provide data on physician-to-patient ratios and healthcare access. Online directories of physicians and hospitals can be used to identify practices and their services. Websites of healthcare providers can offer information on telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient satisfaction scores. Local community resources, such as the local hospital and cancer support organizations, can provide additional information.

Once the data is gathered, it needs to be analyzed and synthesized. This involves comparing physician-to-patient ratios to national averages, evaluating the quality of practices based on their services and accreditation, assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources. The information gathered should be organized and presented in a clear and concise manner, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The final product of this analysis should be a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care availability and quality in 15777 and Starford. This information can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to address healthcare disparities. The analysis is not intended to be a definitive ranking but rather a starting point for further investigation and discussion.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, including the locations of practices, the distribution of healthcare resources, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide a valuable visual perspective on the availability of breast cancer care in your area.