15783, West Lebanon, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15783, West Lebanon, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15783 has some form of health insurance. 46.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.28 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 15783 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15783. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 20 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 130 health care providers accessible to residents in 15783, West Lebanon, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: West Lebanon, PA (ZIP Code 15783)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 15783 (West Lebanon, PA), focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to assess the overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for this specific geographic area, informing residents about the resources available to them.

West Lebanon, a small community in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural setting often translates to limited resources compared to more urbanized areas. Understanding the nuances of this specific location is crucial for evaluating its capacity to support breast cancer patients.

**Primary Care Availability:**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Regular checkups, screenings, and early detection are all initiated within the primary care setting. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is therefore paramount. In West Lebanon, the number of PCPs per capita is a critical indicator. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and local healthcare providers, such as Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), must be consulted to determine the current PCP-to-patient ratio. A low ratio could indicate potential barriers to accessing timely care, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. This necessitates a thorough investigation into the number of active PCPs serving the area, their patient load, and their willingness to accept new patients.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Beyond the sheer number of PCPs, the availability of specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, is vital. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer require a multidisciplinary approach, involving various specialists. A high physician-to-patient ratio for these specialists is a positive indicator, suggesting better access to expert care. Researching the number of oncologists and radiologists practicing within a reasonable commuting distance of West Lebanon is necessary. This includes identifying their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers, as well as their patient volume. The proximity of IRMC and other regional healthcare facilities plays a significant role in determining the availability of specialized care. The accessibility of these specialists significantly impacts the ‘Breast Cancer Score’.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying practices that excel in breast cancer care is a key aspect of this analysis. This involves evaluating factors such as patient outcomes, adherence to national guidelines, and the availability of supportive services. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, comprehensive treatment, and patient-centered care should be highlighted. This requires examining publicly available data, patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and potentially conducting interviews with healthcare professionals. Key indicators of a standout practice include the utilization of advanced imaging technologies (e.g., 3D mammography), access to clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach to care, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiation therapists, and support staff.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers is a critical factor in the ‘Breast Cancer Score’. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in West Lebanon. Assessing the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of necessary technology (e.g., internet access) for patients and providers.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. This analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in supporting cancer patients. This includes assessing the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources that address the emotional challenges associated with breast cancer. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a significant factor in the ‘Breast Cancer Score’.

**Overall Assessment:**

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for West Lebanon (ZIP Code 15783) is determined by a combination of the factors discussed above. A high score indicates excellent access to care, a robust network of specialists, advanced technologies, and comprehensive support services. Conversely, a low score suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive breast cancer care. The final score will be based on a weighted average of the individual factors, reflecting their relative importance. This analysis will provide a clear and concise assessment of the current state of breast cancer care in West Lebanon, empowering residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

This analysis highlights the critical factors influencing the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in West Lebanon, PA. Understanding the local resources, physician availability, and the adoption of innovative technologies is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Further research and data collection are essential for a comprehensive and accurate assessment.

To visualize and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in West Lebanon and beyond.