15853, Ridgway, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15853, Ridgway, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.69 percent of the residents in 15853 has some form of health insurance. 43.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.94 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 15853 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,519 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15853. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,089 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 438 health care providers accessible to residents in 15853, Ridgway, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ridgway, PA (ZIP Code 15853)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within Ridgway, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15853), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to patients, highlighting strengths and areas for potential improvement. The assessment considers the complexities of rural healthcare, acknowledging the challenges in accessing specialized care and the importance of robust primary care networks.

Ridgway, a small town in Elk County, faces the typical healthcare challenges of a rural community. Access to specialized medical services, including comprehensive breast cancer care, can be limited. The foundation of effective breast cancer management, however, rests on the strength of the primary care network. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are crucial for positive outcomes. Therefore, this analysis prioritizes the accessibility and quality of primary care within the designated ZIP code.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. In rural areas, these ratios often lag behind those in more urban settings. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of patients to receive routine checkups, screenings, and timely referrals. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the specific ratio within 15853 is essential. Public health data, often available through the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), should be consulted. This data will reveal the number of PCPs actively practicing in the area and the size of the population they serve.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the scope of services offered, the experience of the physicians, and the integration of preventative care protocols. Ideally, primary care practices in Ridgway should offer comprehensive services, including breast cancer screening recommendations, patient education, and referrals to specialists when necessary.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual clinic profiles. Factors to consider include the credentials and experience of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment (even if not on-site, the ease of referral to facilities with such equipment is key), and the practice's commitment to patient education and preventative care. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate care coordination would be considered more patient-centered and potentially higher-scoring.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge the geographical gap, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in educational programs. The extent to which primary care practices in Ridgway have embraced telemedicine should be assessed. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and support.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is essential for helping patients cope with the psychological challenges of their illness. The analysis should identify the availability of mental health professionals in the area, the types of services offered, and the ease with which patients can access these resources. Close collaboration between primary care providers and mental health specialists is also crucial.

The integration of these elements – physician-to-patient ratios, quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – allows for a more holistic assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in Ridgway. The analysis should consider the presence of any local support groups or advocacy organizations dedicated to breast cancer awareness and patient support. These organizations can play a vital role in providing education, resources, and emotional support to patients and their families.

A comprehensive analysis would also consider the availability of specialized cancer care, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists. While these specialists may not be located directly within 15853, the ease of access to these services through referral networks is a crucial factor. The analysis should assess the proximity of cancer centers, the transportation options available to patients, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists.

The assessment should also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and receive timely and effective breast cancer care. The analysis should acknowledge these disparities and highlight any initiatives aimed at addressing them.

Finally, the analysis should be dynamic. Healthcare is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and best practices emerging regularly. The analysis should be updated periodically to reflect these changes and ensure that the information provided remains current and relevant. This iterative approach allows for continuous improvement in the quality of care provided to patients in Ridgway.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ridgway and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's mapping tools can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, helping to inform your healthcare decisions.