15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.57 percent of the residents in 15904 has some form of health insurance. 36.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.46 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 15904 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,916 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15904. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,072 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,046 health care providers accessible to residents in 15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer care in Johnstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15904), is a complex tapestry woven with threads of medical expertise, resource availability, and patient access. A comprehensive analysis, which we’ll term a “Breast Cancer Score,” is vital for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. This analysis will consider factors such as physician density, primary care access, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, ultimately painting a picture of the support system available to women facing a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical element. The ideal scenario involves a sufficient number of specialists – oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists – to meet the community's needs. A low ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, treatment bottlenecks, and increased patient stress. Conversely, a high ratio, while seemingly positive, might indicate a lack of patient volume, potentially affecting the experience of physicians in treating breast cancer. Specific data on the number of oncologists and surgeons practicing in 15904, and the average number of patients they see, is crucial for this assessment. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the American Medical Association, can provide this information. A deeper dive would also explore the availability of specialized nurses, such as oncology-certified nurses, who play a crucial role in patient care and education.

Primary care availability is another pillar of a strong breast cancer support system. Early detection through regular screenings, such as mammograms, is paramount. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for women, guiding them through screening recommendations and referrals. The number of primary care physicians per capita in Johnstown, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments, are key indicators. Furthermore, the integration of primary care practices with local hospitals and cancer centers is essential for seamless care coordination. This includes electronic health record (EHR) systems that allow for efficient information sharing between different providers. A robust primary care network helps to ensure that women receive timely and appropriate care, from initial screening to referral to specialists.

Identifying standout practices is important. Some practices may distinguish themselves through advanced technology, innovative treatment protocols, or exceptional patient satisfaction scores. These practices often serve as models for others, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Factors to consider include the availability of state-of-the-art imaging equipment, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and access to clinical trials. Patient testimonials and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including factors such as communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care. Examining the accreditation status of local hospitals and cancer centers, such as accreditation by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, is another important element.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Examining the availability of telemedicine services for breast cancer patients in Johnstown is critical. This includes assessing the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the technology used (e.g., video conferencing platforms, remote patient monitoring devices), and the reimbursement policies of local insurance providers. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from cancer centers or who have mobility issues.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients through their treatment journey. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Johnstown, including the number of therapists specializing in oncology, the types of therapies offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., cost, wait times), is crucial. Collaboration between oncologists and mental health professionals is also vital for providing comprehensive care.

Synthesizing all these factors – physician ratios, primary care access, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – allows for the creation of a Breast Cancer Score. This score, which would be specific to ZIP Code 15904, provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape for breast cancer patients. The score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to inform strategies for improving care. This would involve analyzing the data, weighting the factors based on their relative importance, and assigning a numerical score. This score could then be used to compare Johnstown’s healthcare environment with other areas, or to track progress over time.

Further, such an analysis could identify opportunities for improvement. This might include recruiting more specialists, expanding telemedicine services, or increasing access to mental health support. It could also involve promoting collaboration between different healthcare providers and community organizations. The goal is to create a healthcare system that is responsive to the needs of breast cancer patients, providing them with the best possible care and support. The final score would be a dynamic measure, reflecting the constant evolution of the healthcare landscape.

The ability to visualize this data geographically is incredibly powerful. CartoChrome maps can transform complex healthcare data into easily understandable visual representations. CartoChrome maps can display physician locations, primary care access points, and the availability of various services in a visually intuitive way. These maps can be used by patients to find the best care options, by healthcare providers to identify gaps in services, and by policymakers to make informed decisions about resource allocation.

Ready to visualize the breast cancer care landscape in Johnstown, Pennsylvania? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps and unlock the insights hidden within your data. Contact us today to learn more about how CartoChrome can help you create data-driven solutions for improving healthcare access and outcomes.