15934, Elton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15934, Elton, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 15934 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 15934 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15934. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,188 health care providers accessible to residents in 15934, Elton, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Elton, PA (ZIP Code 15934)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the context of primary care access in Elton, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on ZIP code 15934. We aim to create a 'Breast Cancer Score' reflecting the accessibility and comprehensiveness of resources, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for potential improvement.

Elton, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its rural setting can limit access to specialized care, making the strength of primary care and the integration of supportive services crucial. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will consider these factors, offering a holistic view beyond simply counting physicians.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While publicly available data provides general estimates, the true impact depends on the specific specialties available and their willingness to accept new patients. A low ratio of primary care physicians, particularly those accepting new patients, can create significant bottlenecks. This bottleneck affects the timely detection and management of breast cancer, as primary care physicians often serve as the initial point of contact for screening and referral. In 15934, we need to ascertain the number of actively practicing primary care physicians and the estimated patient population to derive a meaningful ratio. Further investigation would involve determining how many of these physicians are board-certified, and have experience in women's health, as this would increase the score.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves evaluating factors like the use of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening (mammograms, clinical breast exams), the availability of patient education materials, and the ease of access to appointments. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and patient satisfaction surveys would score higher. Furthermore, the presence of on-site services, such as mammography or access to a breast cancer specialist, would significantly boost a practice's score. This analysis would need to go beyond simple online reviews, incorporating information from healthcare accreditation bodies and patient advocacy groups.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive counseling, and participate in support groups. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for breast cancer screening follow-up, consultations, or mental health support would receive a higher score. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan are all crucial considerations. Examining the adoption rate of telemedicine in the local primary care network is crucial for the score.

Mental health resources are an integral component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services is essential for patients' well-being. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would receive a higher score. The availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, both in-person and online, also significantly impacts the score. The integration of mental health services into the patient care plan is a key indicator of a comprehensive approach.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' would not be a static number but a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates would be necessary to account for changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The score should be transparent and readily accessible to the community, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

Primary care availability in Elton is a key factor. If primary care access is limited, the 'Breast Cancer Score' will be inherently lower, regardless of the quality of specialized services. The ability to secure timely appointments with primary care physicians for screening and referrals is the foundation of effective breast cancer care. This analysis would need to assess the wait times for appointments, the acceptance of new patients, and the accessibility of primary care practices, including their location and hours of operation. The availability of transportation to and from these practices also impacts the score.

The integration of data from various sources, including public health records, physician directories, and patient feedback, is essential for a comprehensive assessment. The final 'Breast Cancer Score' would reflect a multifaceted evaluation of the local healthcare system's capacity to provide quality breast cancer care.

The challenges in a rural community like Elton are significant, but opportunities exist to improve access and quality. The utilization of telemedicine, the development of strong referral networks, and the integration of mental health services are all crucial steps. This 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of affairs and identifying areas for strategic improvement.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower patients with the information they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively and receive the best possible care. The 'Breast Cancer Score' is a tool designed to facilitate this process, promoting transparency and accountability within the healthcare community. It is a living document, constantly evolving to reflect the dynamic nature of healthcare delivery.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Elton, including physician locations, access to services, and potential areas for improvement, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can offer a powerful visual tool to understand the local healthcare landscape.