15781, Walston, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15781, Walston, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15781 has some form of health insurance. 51.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.36 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 15781 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15781. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 39 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,274 health care providers accessible to residents in 15781, Walston, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer care is a critical component of healthcare, and access to quality providers significantly impacts patient outcomes. Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer-related services in a specific geographic area provides valuable insights for residents seeking care. This analysis focuses on physicians within ZIP code 15781, encompassing the town of Walston, Pennsylvania, and examines primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The primary care landscape in Walston (ZIP code 15781) is a crucial starting point. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the initial point of contact for patients, providing screenings, referrals, and ongoing support. Assessing the number of PCPs relative to the population of Walston reveals the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, including breast cancer screenings. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing up-to-date population data and physician directories, a task that is best performed using specialized datasets and tools.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. Are the PCPs in Walston actively promoting breast cancer screenings? Do they adhere to the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons? Evaluating these aspects requires examining practice profiles, patient reviews, and potentially, surveys of local healthcare providers.

The availability of specialists within or near Walston is also crucial. Oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists are essential for diagnosing and treating breast cancer. The proximity of these specialists to Walston residents influences the convenience and timeliness of care. A lack of local specialists may necessitate travel to larger cities, potentially creating logistical and financial burdens for patients. Examining the presence of these specialists within a reasonable radius of Walston is essential for assessing access to comprehensive breast cancer care.

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond the basic metrics. Some practices may excel in patient communication, offering a supportive and empathetic environment. Others may be at the forefront of adopting innovative technologies or treatment modalities. These practices often have a strong emphasis on patient education and actively participate in community outreach programs. This information is often gleaned from patient testimonials, awards, and accreditations from reputable healthcare organizations.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Walston. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among local providers is crucial. Do practices offer virtual consultations? Are they equipped with the necessary technology to conduct remote screenings or provide remote monitoring? Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for Walston residents.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but vital component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients through this challenging journey. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in Walston, including the presence of therapists specializing in oncology, is critical. Are these services integrated into the local healthcare system? Are they accessible and affordable for all patients?

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in Walston (ZIP code 15781) should consider all these factors. A comprehensive analysis would include a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. This analysis would then be used to create a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the area.

This score would be a valuable tool for residents seeking care, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare options. It would also provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. This type of analysis can also be used to identify gaps in care, allowing for the development of targeted interventions to improve access to breast cancer services.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Walston and surrounding areas have access to high-quality, comprehensive breast cancer care. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. By carefully assessing the current state of care, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing targeted interventions, we can work towards a future where all individuals affected by breast cancer receive the support and treatment they need.

Want to visualize the breast cancer care landscape in Walston and surrounding areas? Explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics using CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing access to care and make informed decisions about your health.