15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.91 percent of the residents in 15906 has some form of health insurance. 60.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.99 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 15906 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,590 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15906. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,236 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,052 health care providers accessible to residents in 15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15906)

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within Johnstown, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on the 15906 ZIP code, while also evaluating the broader availability of primary care services within the city. The goal is to create a "Breast Cancer Score" based on key factors influencing patient access to quality care, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support. This score aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment for individuals seeking breast cancer treatment and support.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system lies in the availability of skilled medical professionals. Within the 15906 ZIP code, a critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically concerning primary care physicians (PCPs), oncologists, and radiologists. A low ratio of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, as individuals may struggle to secure timely appointments for initial screenings and referrals. Similarly, a shortage of oncologists and radiologists can create bottlenecks in treatment pathways, impacting the speed and effectiveness of care. Researching the current physician-to-patient ratios, comparing them to regional and national averages, is crucial for establishing a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality and characteristics of medical practices play a significant role. This analysis will delve into the presence of standout practices, evaluating their commitment to breast cancer care. This includes assessing the availability of comprehensive services, such as mammography, biopsies, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. Practices that demonstrate a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between various specialists, often provide superior patient outcomes. We would examine the accreditations held by local facilities, such as those from the American College of Radiology (ACR) for mammography services, as these accreditations often indicate adherence to rigorous quality standards.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to remotely consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, especially for those undergoing treatment. Assessing the extent to which local practices have integrated telemedicine into their breast cancer care offerings is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and access to online patient portals for communication and information sharing.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive care system. The analysis would evaluate the presence of on-site or affiliated mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in supporting cancer patients. It would also assess the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, and other resources designed to address the emotional and psychological needs of individuals navigating this challenging journey.

Primary care availability in Johnstown, extending beyond the immediate 15906 ZIP code, is a crucial factor. Primary care physicians serve as the gateway to specialized care, and their accessibility significantly impacts early detection and timely referrals. Analyzing the overall availability of PCPs within Johnstown, including appointment wait times and the acceptance of new patients, is essential. This assessment would also consider the geographic distribution of PCPs, ensuring that residents across the city have reasonable access to primary care services.

In evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score," each of these factors will be assigned a weighted value based on its perceived importance. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources will all contribute to the overall score. The higher the score, the more favorable the healthcare environment for breast cancer patients within the specified area.

For the specific 15906 ZIP code, research would begin by identifying all practicing physicians within the area. This includes PCPs, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of State and the American Medical Association, would be utilized to compile this information. Then, each practice's website, as well as publicly available information like patient reviews, would be investigated. This information will be used to assess the services offered, accreditations held, and telemedicine adoption.

The evaluation of mental health resources would involve identifying local mental health providers and support groups. This would include searching online directories, contacting local hospitals and cancer centers, and reviewing community resources. The availability of specialized cancer support groups and counseling services would be a key consideration.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite measure, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the 15906 ZIP code and the broader primary care landscape of Johnstown. This score will provide a valuable tool for individuals seeking care, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare options. It will also provide insights for healthcare providers and policymakers, highlighting areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the region.

This analysis, while providing a general overview, is meant to be a starting point. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the "Breast Cancer Score" should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of new technologies and resources.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and the location of support services, consider exploring the power of spatial data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a comprehensive and interactive view of the healthcare landscape in Johnstown, allowing you to visualize key data points and gain valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of breast cancer care. **Visit CartoChrome to explore the power of maps and data visualization for healthcare analysis.**