15926, Central City, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15926, Central City, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.76 percent of the residents in 15926 has some form of health insurance. 40.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.33 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 15926 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 569 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15926. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 550 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,699 health care providers accessible to residents in 15926, Central City, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment require a multifaceted approach, encompassing early detection, expert medical care, and supportive resources. Evaluating the landscape of breast cancer care within a specific geographic area necessitates a comprehensive analysis. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of care for individuals in ZIP Code 15926, a hypothetical area, and the broader context of primary care accessibility in the fictional Central City. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, acknowledging that such a score is inherently complex and dependent on numerous factors.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Central City, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates potential challenges in accessing timely appointments for preventative screenings, such as mammograms. Conversely, a high ratio suggests better access. The ideal ratio varies, but a benchmark of 1:1500 is often cited as a desirable goal. Central City's ratio, if available, would significantly impact the overall score.

Within ZIP Code 15926, the specific practices and their approaches to breast cancer care are paramount. A "standout practice" could be identified by several characteristics. Does the practice offer on-site mammography services, reducing the need for patients to travel? Do they have dedicated breast cancer specialists, such as oncologists or breast surgeons? The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including radiologists, pathologists, and oncology nurses, is a strong indicator of comprehensive care. Furthermore, the practice's commitment to patient education, support groups, and access to clinical trials contributes to its overall rating.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. The availability of virtual support groups and educational resources through telemedicine further enhances the patient experience. The level of telemedicine integration within practices in 15926 would influence its score.

Mental health is an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can lead to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources in 15926 is vital.

Beyond individual practices, the broader healthcare ecosystem within Central City and ZIP Code 15926 plays a role. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with a dedicated cancer center, including radiation oncology services, is a significant advantage. Proximity to specialized facilities, such as comprehensive cancer centers, is also important, although transportation considerations must be factored in. The availability of financial assistance programs and support services for patients navigating treatment further enhances the overall score.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 15926 would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate excellent access to primary care, a high physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices with dedicated specialists and on-site services, robust telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, and a supportive healthcare ecosystem. A lower score would reflect the opposite. The score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that can change over time as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available.

The assessment of primary care availability in Central City is intertwined with the score for 15926. If Central City has a shortage of PCPs, it negatively impacts the ability of individuals in 15926 to access timely screenings and early detection. This underscores the importance of a strong primary care foundation for effective breast cancer care.

The specific practices within 15926 would be evaluated based on several criteria. The number of board-certified breast surgeons and oncologists on staff is a key indicator. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI, is also important. The practice's commitment to research and clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments, is a significant advantage. The practice's patient satisfaction scores and reviews also provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

Telemedicine's role extends beyond consultations. It can also facilitate access to educational materials, support groups, and remote monitoring of patients' health. Practices that utilize telehealth platforms to connect patients with specialists, provide virtual support groups, and offer educational resources demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. The availability of these resources in 15926 would be assessed.

Mental health resources are crucial. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health professionals, offer on-site counseling services, or provide referrals to specialized support groups demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of these resources in 15926 would be assessed.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 15926 and Central City is a complex assessment. It's based on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the capabilities of local practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This is an ongoing process, requiring regular updates. To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in 15926 and Central City, explore the power of geographic data visualization.

**Click here to explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to visualize the breast cancer care landscape in your area and gain deeper insights into the factors that influence patient outcomes.**