15901, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15901, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.68 percent of the residents in 15901 has some form of health insurance. 67.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.24 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 15901 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 583 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15901. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 738 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,022 health care providers accessible to residents in 15901, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15901)

This analysis examines the quality of breast cancer care in Johnstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15901), focusing on physician availability, primary care infrastructure, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for patients seeking care and to highlight areas for potential improvement. The analysis will not rank individual physicians, but rather assesses the overall healthcare landscape.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access**

Johnstown, like many rural communities, faces challenges in physician access. The physician-to-patient ratio, specifically for primary care physicians (PCPs), is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and delayed diagnoses. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and national databases needs to be consulted to ascertain the precise PCP-to-patient ratio within the 15901 ZIP code and the surrounding Cambria County. The availability of PCPs is the crucial first step in breast cancer detection. Early detection through regular screenings, such as mammograms, is significantly impacted by a patient’s ability to see a PCP for referrals and follow-up care.

The concentration of PCPs is another important factor. Are they evenly distributed throughout the city, or are there underserved areas? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and other community clinics plays a vital role in providing care to vulnerable populations, including those at higher risk for breast cancer. These centers often offer sliding-scale fees and other support services. A robust primary care network is fundamental for a strong breast cancer care infrastructure.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Care**

Identifying practices with a strong reputation for breast cancer care is crucial. This requires examining factors such as the availability of board-certified oncologists and surgeons, the presence of dedicated breast cancer centers, and the use of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Hospitals like UPMC Altoona, which may serve the Johnstown area, are likely to be key players in this landscape.

The analysis should delve into the specific services offered by these practices. Do they provide comprehensive screening programs, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI? Do they offer genetic counseling and testing for patients with a family history of breast cancer? Are they equipped to provide a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies? The quality of surgical expertise, the availability of radiation oncology services, and the experience of medical oncologists are all essential components of a high-quality breast cancer program.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Johnstown. The adoption of telemedicine technologies by local healthcare providers is a key factor in the assessment. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and access to educational resources.

The analysis must examine the extent to which telemedicine is being utilized for breast cancer care. Are physicians offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, discussing treatment plans, and providing emotional support? Are patients able to access remote monitoring services to track their progress and manage side effects? The availability of telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and potentially lead to earlier detection and treatment.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive care. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health services specifically tailored to breast cancer patients.

This includes examining the presence of oncology social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists who specialize in supporting patients through the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Does the local healthcare system offer support groups, individual counseling, and other resources to help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other emotional issues? The integration of mental health services into breast cancer care is essential for promoting overall well-being and improving patient outcomes.

**Overall Score and Areas for Improvement**

Based on the assessment of these factors, a composite score can be developed to reflect the overall quality of breast cancer care in Johnstown (15901). This score should consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources.

Areas for improvement may include increasing the number of PCPs, expanding access to specialized care, promoting the use of telemedicine, and strengthening mental health support services. Addressing these challenges will require collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

**Call to Action**

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Johnstown and gain a deeper understanding of physician distribution, primary care availability, and other relevant factors, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help you identify healthcare resources in your area and make informed decisions about your care.