15870, Wilcox, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15870, Wilcox, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.12 percent of the residents in 15870 has some form of health insurance. 38.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.78 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 15870 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 245 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15870. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 285 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 431 health care providers accessible to residents in 15870, Wilcox, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Wilcox, PA (ZIP Code 15870)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP code 15870, focusing on the town of Wilcox, Pennsylvania. We examine key factors influencing patient outcomes, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to assess the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform patient decision-making and identify opportunities for improvement.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system lies in the availability of qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). Wilcox, a small rural community, faces challenges common to such areas: a potential shortage of PCPs and a geographically dispersed population. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced access to preventative care, all of which negatively impact breast cancer outcomes. Data on this ratio within 15870 is crucial. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide valuable insights into primary care access, identifying potential "Health Professional Shortage Areas" (HPSAs) that may exist in the region.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are also important. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate varying schedules? Do they have established relationships with local specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists? These factors contribute to the overall patient experience and streamline the referral process, which is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. The presence of a dedicated patient navigator within a practice, someone who can guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, is a significant asset.

Specialist availability is a critical component of the breast cancer score. While Wilcox may not have its own dedicated oncology practices, the proximity to larger medical centers in surrounding areas, such as DuBois or St. Marys, is essential. Assessing the travel time to these centers, the availability of appointments with specialists, and the coordination between primary care physicians and specialists are all vital components of the score. The existence of multidisciplinary breast cancer care teams, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists working collaboratively, is a strong indicator of quality care.

Telemedicine is increasingly important in rural healthcare. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in the region can significantly improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health services. Telemedicine reduces the need for travel, which can be a significant burden for patients, especially those undergoing treatment. Evaluating the availability of telehealth options, the ease of use of these platforms, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan are all critical aspects of the score.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Assessing the accessibility of these resources, the insurance coverage for mental health services, and the integration of mental health support into the overall care plan are critical. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Standout practices within 15870, if any, should be identified. This requires a detailed analysis of each practice, evaluating factors such as patient reviews, accreditations, the adoption of technology, and the range of services offered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize evidence-based practices, and actively engage in community outreach should be recognized. These practices serve as models for others and contribute to raising the overall Breast Cancer Score for the region.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Wilcox, PA, is a composite measure reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly. The score should consider all of the factors discussed above, from physician-to-patient ratios and specialist availability to telemedicine adoption and mental health resources. It should also account for patient satisfaction, outcomes data, and the presence of community-based support programs.

Creating a robust and accurate Breast Cancer Score requires the integration of various data sources. Publicly available information, such as data from the HRSA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state health departments, can provide valuable insights. Patient surveys, interviews with healthcare providers, and a review of practice websites and online resources are also essential.

The final Breast Cancer Score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, with a detailed explanation of the methodology used and the factors considered. The score should be used to inform patients about the quality of care available in the area, identify areas for improvement, and advocate for policies that support better breast cancer outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Wilcox, PA, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a comprehensive overview of the area, allowing you to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare.