15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.71 percent of the residents in 15856 has some form of health insurance. 47.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.53 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 15856 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 127 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15856. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 205 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 242 health care providers accessible to residents in 15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Rockton, PA (ZIP Code 15856)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care for residents of Rockton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15856), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of supportive services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape and offering insights into potential areas for improvement. This analysis is not a definitive medical recommendation and should be used in conjunction with personal medical advice.

Rockton, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its relative isolation necessitates a focus on accessible primary care as the crucial entry point for breast cancer screening and early detection. The success of breast cancer treatment hinges on early diagnosis, and the accessibility of PCPs is the first critical element in this equation.

**Primary Care Availability in Rockton**

The availability of PCPs within Rockton and its immediate vicinity is a primary concern. Residents' ability to secure timely appointments with qualified PCPs is paramount. A thorough assessment would involve examining the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, considering factors such as the number of patients each physician serves. This would also include the average wait times for appointments, both for routine checkups and for concerns related to breast health.

A key indicator of access is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, it's essential to consider the specialization of the physicians. If a significant portion of the PCPs in the area are family medicine practitioners, they may be less equipped to address specific breast health concerns than those with specialized training.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Their Implications**

Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio for Rockton requires access to detailed demographic and physician data, which is often proprietary. However, based on general population density and the size of the local healthcare infrastructure, it's reasonable to assume that the ratio may be less favorable than in more densely populated areas. This could translate to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially a delay in the initial assessment of breast health concerns.

The impact of a less-than-ideal physician-to-patient ratio is significant. It can lead to delayed diagnoses, a decreased likelihood of early-stage detection, and ultimately, a lower chance of successful treatment. Addressing this challenge requires a multi-pronged approach. This may include attracting more physicians to the area, expanding existing practices, and leveraging technology to improve efficiency.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**

Identifying standout practices within or near Rockton is crucial. These practices often serve as models for best practices in breast cancer care. This assessment would involve evaluating several factors: the availability of on-site mammography services, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) for seamless information sharing, and the practice's commitment to patient education and support.

Practices that excel in these areas demonstrate a proactive approach to breast cancer prevention and treatment. They often offer comprehensive services, including screening, diagnosis, and referral to specialists. They may also have dedicated staff members, such as nurse navigators, who guide patients through the complex healthcare system.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas like Rockton. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a critical factor in this analysis. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing patients to connect with specialists remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, and accessing mental health support.

The benefits of telemedicine extend beyond convenience. It can reduce travel time and costs, improve patient satisfaction, and facilitate timely access to care. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, the patient's comfort with technology, and the physician's expertise in virtual care.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability and integration of mental health resources are essential. This analysis would assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the Rockton area.

It would also examine how these resources are integrated into the overall healthcare system. Do PCPs routinely screen patients for mental health concerns? Are there established referral pathways to mental health services? The seamless integration of mental health support is crucial for providing comprehensive care and improving patient outcomes.

**Challenges and Opportunities**

Rockton faces several challenges in providing comprehensive breast cancer care. The limited number of PCPs, the potential for a less-than-ideal physician-to-patient ratio, and the relative isolation of the community all pose obstacles. However, these challenges also create opportunities.

The adoption of telemedicine, the expansion of existing practices, and the recruitment of new physicians can significantly improve access to care. Furthermore, the integration of mental health resources and the establishment of strong referral pathways can enhance the overall quality of care.

**Conclusion**

The breast cancer score for Rockton, PA (ZIP code 15856), is a complex assessment that requires ongoing evaluation. The availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all critical factors. While challenges exist, there are also opportunities to improve access to care and enhance patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources and a deeper dive into the data that informs this analysis, explore the power of spatial analysis.

**Call to Action:**

Uncover the spatial relationships within the Rockton healthcare landscape. Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the resources available in your community. Explore the maps and empower yourself with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your health.