15922, Belsano, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15922, Belsano, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15922 has some form of health insurance. 93.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 22.32 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 15922 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 38 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15922. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 20 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,303 health care providers accessible to residents in 15922, Belsano, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Belsano, PA (ZIP Code 15922)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 15922, focusing on primary care physician availability and the overall quality of resources available to patients. We aim to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, empowering residents with the knowledge they need to navigate their breast cancer journey.

Belsano, Pennsylvania, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The area's rural nature often translates to reduced access to specialized medical services, particularly in oncology. This analysis will assess the current state of affairs, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

A critical indicator of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In a rural setting, this ratio is often less favorable compared to urban areas. Determining the precise ratio within ZIP code 15922 requires a detailed analysis of the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) and the local population. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be used to determine the population. The Pennsylvania Medical Society or the American Medical Association can provide information on the number of practicing physicians. A low ratio suggests a potential shortage of PCPs, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses.

The availability of primary care is crucial because PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients. They are responsible for screening, early detection, and referrals to specialists, including oncologists and radiologists. If primary care access is limited, the entire breast cancer care continuum can be negatively impacted.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their commitment to breast cancer care. This includes assessing their patient-centered approach, the use of advanced technologies, and their participation in community outreach programs. Practices that actively promote breast cancer screening, provide comprehensive patient education, and offer support services are considered exemplary.

These practices often have dedicated staff, including nurses and patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. They may also collaborate with local hospitals and cancer centers to provide seamless care. The presence of such practices significantly elevates the overall quality of breast cancer care within the community.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Significance:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Its adoption by local practices is a key factor in our assessment. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to timely care.

The use of telemedicine for breast cancer care can include virtual consultations with oncologists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and online support groups. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and improved healthcare outcomes.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of our 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care.

Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models are demonstrating a holistic approach to patient well-being. This can involve on-site counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, and partnerships with support organizations. The presence of robust mental health resources can significantly improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients.

**Specific Examples (Hypothetical):**

Let's consider a hypothetical scenario. Suppose a practice, "Belsano Family Health," demonstrates a strong commitment to breast cancer screening, offering mammograms on-site and providing patient navigators to guide patients through the process. They also actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about breast cancer and promoting early detection. Furthermore, they have implemented telemedicine for follow-up appointments, making it easier for patients to manage their care.

Conversely, another practice, "Belsano Medical Group," may have limited resources, with longer wait times for appointments and fewer support services. Their telemedicine adoption may be limited, and they may not have readily available mental health resources. This difference in the availability of resources would significantly impact their respective scores.

**Scoring Methodology:**

The 'Breast Cancer Score' will be determined by assigning points based on various factors. These include:

* **Physician-to-patient ratio:** A lower ratio (more physicians per patient) will receive a higher score.
* **Availability of primary care:** Practices with readily available appointments and a focus on preventative care will score higher.
* **Presence of standout practices:** Practices with comprehensive services, patient navigators, and community outreach will receive higher scores.
* **Telemedicine adoption:** Practices that have implemented telemedicine for consultations, monitoring, and support will score higher.
* **Availability of mental health resources:** Practices with on-site counseling, referrals, and partnerships with support organizations will receive higher scores.

The scores will be weighted based on their importance to patient outcomes. For example, the availability of primary care and the presence of mental health resources may be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption.

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Belsano, PA (ZIP code 15922) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis highlights the importance of physician availability, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. The 'Breast Cancer Score' aims to provide a comprehensive assessment, empowering residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Explore the Healthcare Landscape with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Belsano and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer a visual representation of physician locations, hospital facilities, and other relevant data, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare. Visit CartoChrome today to see the healthcare landscape mapped out.