15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.62 percent of the residents in 15824 has some form of health insurance. 41.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.73 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 15824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,112 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15824. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,110 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,700 health care providers accessible to residents in 15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer awareness and early detection are critical health concerns, especially in rural areas where access to quality care can be limited. This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care in Brockway, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15824), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine. This analysis will also explore mental health resources, a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care, and highlight standout practices within the community.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible and competent primary care physicians (PCPs). In Brockway, assessing the availability of PCPs is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to care. To determine the precise ratio, we would need to consult publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the U.S. Census Bureau. This data would need to be cross-referenced with physician directories to ascertain the number of practicing PCPs within the 15824 ZIP code.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This includes the PCPs’ experience in breast cancer screening and their commitment to preventative care. Do they routinely offer mammograms and other necessary tests? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists? Are they up-to-date on the latest breast cancer guidelines? Evaluating these factors requires a deeper dive. Patient reviews, online directories, and potentially interviews with local healthcare providers could provide valuable insights.

Examining specific practices within Brockway is crucial. Are there any standout primary care practices known for their commitment to breast cancer screening and early detection? Are they actively participating in community outreach programs to educate residents about breast health? Are they offering extended hours or weekend appointments to improve access? Identifying these exemplary practices can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare providers.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in assessing breast cancer care in Brockway. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive virtual follow-up appointments, and access educational resources. Does the primary care infrastructure in Brockway support telemedicine? Do PCPs offer virtual consultations for routine checkups or follow-up appointments? Are there telehealth options available for breast cancer screening and diagnosis? The answers to these questions will paint a more complete picture of the accessibility and quality of care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health support, including counseling, therapy, and support groups, can significantly improve patients' quality of life and overall well-being. Are there mental health professionals in Brockway who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients? Are there support groups available for breast cancer survivors and their families? Are these resources easily accessible and affordable?

The availability of specialists, such as oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, is also critical. While primary care physicians often initiate the screening process, specialists are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. How far do patients in Brockway need to travel to see a breast cancer specialist? Are there any local specialists within a reasonable driving distance? The proximity and availability of specialists directly impact the timeliness and effectiveness of care.

Furthermore, we must consider the socioeconomic factors that can affect access to breast cancer care. Does Brockway have a significant population of low-income individuals or those with limited access to transportation? Are there programs in place to help patients with financial assistance or transportation to medical appointments? Addressing these social determinants of health is critical to ensuring equitable access to care for all residents.

Finally, the integration of technology and data analytics can enhance breast cancer care. Electronic health records (EHRs) allow for better coordination of care, improved communication between providers, and more efficient tracking of patient outcomes. Are the primary care practices in Brockway using EHRs? Are they sharing patient information with specialists in a secure and timely manner? The adoption of technology can streamline the care process and improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Brockway requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, mental health resources, and the availability of specialists. Identifying standout practices and addressing socioeconomic factors are also critical. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current system.

To visualize and analyze the data discussed, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you create interactive visualizations of healthcare data, including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to resources. By mapping this information, you can gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Brockway and identify areas for improvement.