15834, Emporium, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15834, Emporium, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.28 percent of the residents in 15834 has some form of health insurance. 59.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.62 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 15834 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 803 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15834. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 390 health care providers accessible to residents in 15834, Emporium, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Emporium, PA (ZIP Code 15834)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians, their practices, and the overall healthcare ecosystem within Emporium, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15834), to generate a "Breast Cancer Score." This score, while not a single numerical value, represents a comprehensive assessment of the factors influencing a patient's journey from early detection to treatment and support.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system rests upon accessible and readily available primary care. Within Emporium, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). A low ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, presents a significant challenge. Patients may face extended wait times for appointments, hindering early detection and timely referrals. This is a crucial factor to consider in our Breast Cancer Score.

Beyond mere numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are essential. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer comprehensive women's health services, including routine mammograms and breast exams? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons? The presence of these elements contributes positively to the score. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, such as breast cancer awareness campaigns, also demonstrate a commitment to proactive care.

Telemedicine adoption is a modern-day necessity. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments or initial consultations, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Emporium. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will receive a higher score. This technology can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be physically located within the immediate vicinity.

Mental health resources are another vital component of the Breast Cancer Score. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for patient well-being. Practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral networks to mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes access to support groups, both in-person and virtual, which can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community.

Standout practices within Emporium would be those that excel in multiple areas. These practices would likely demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offering comprehensive women's health services, embracing telemedicine, and integrating mental health resources. They would also have efficient appointment scheduling systems, clear communication protocols, and a positive patient experience. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, practice websites, and direct communication with the healthcare providers.

The overall healthcare ecosystem in Emporium also plays a role. The presence of a local hospital or clinic with a dedicated oncology department or a partnership with a larger medical center in a nearby city is a significant advantage. Proximity to specialized services, such as radiation therapy and surgical oncology, directly impacts the patient's ability to receive timely and effective treatment. The availability of support services, such as transportation assistance for appointments, also contributes to a more positive patient experience.

Assessing the Breast Cancer Score also requires a consideration of the local demographics. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and access to insurance can influence a patient's ability to access care. Communities with a higher percentage of older adults may require a greater emphasis on preventative screenings and early detection. Addressing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to care for all residents is a critical component of a robust healthcare system.

The limitations of this analysis should also be acknowledged. Publicly available data can be outdated or incomplete. Obtaining precise information on physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, and telemedicine adoption rates can be challenging. Patient reviews and anecdotal evidence, while valuable, may not always be representative of the overall patient experience. A comprehensive Breast Cancer Score would ideally involve direct engagement with healthcare providers, patients, and community stakeholders.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Emporium, PA (ZIP code 15834) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the characteristics of their practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare ecosystem all contribute to the score. While a definitive numerical score is difficult to calculate without more detailed data, a thorough assessment of these factors can provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement.

For a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Emporium, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a dynamic and informative perspective, allowing you to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare accessibility in your community.