15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15937 has some form of health insurance. 47.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.99 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 15937 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15937. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 135 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,830 health care providers accessible to residents in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania.

The assessment of breast cancer care within the Jerome, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15937) area requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates a deep dive into the availability and quality of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the accessibility of crucial mental health resources for patients navigating the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the resources available to individuals facing this challenging disease, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

Jerome, a small community, presents unique challenges in healthcare delivery. The primary care landscape is the foundation upon which all other specialized services are built. The availability of accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. These physicians serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screening, diagnosis, and referrals to specialists. Low PCP availability can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, negatively impacting patient outcomes. The assessment must therefore determine the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, as well as the average wait times for appointments.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. A high ratio, indicating a large patient population per physician, can strain resources and potentially compromise the quality of care. Conversely, a low ratio suggests better access and potentially more personalized attention. This analysis needs to compare the physician-to-patient ratio in Jerome with regional and national averages to gauge its relative strength or weakness. The data should be further broken down by specialty, including family medicine, internal medicine, and gynecology, as these are the specialties most directly involved in breast cancer screening and initial care.

Standout practices within the region deserve specific recognition. This involves identifying clinics or medical groups that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This could be based on factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the utilization of evidence-based guidelines, the availability of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and the presence of dedicated breast cancer navigators who guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system. The analysis should highlight any practices that have received accreditations from reputable organizations, such as the American College of Radiology, as these often indicate a commitment to quality.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable. The analysis should assess the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine for breast cancer screening, follow-up appointments, and consultations with oncologists and other specialists. This includes examining the types of telemedicine platforms used, the availability of virtual appointments, and the ease of access for patients.

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The assessment must identify the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Jerome area. This includes evaluating the accessibility of these services, whether they accept insurance, and whether they have experience working with cancer patients. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is also a significant factor.

The overall assessment should consider the availability of support services beyond medical care. These include patient education materials, financial assistance programs, and transportation services to help patients access appointments and treatments. The analysis should evaluate the degree to which these resources are readily available and accessible to patients in the Jerome area.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the demographics of the population served by the local healthcare providers. Are there specific programs or initiatives in place to address the unique needs of underserved populations, such as those with limited English proficiency or those facing socioeconomic challenges? This includes an examination of the availability of culturally sensitive healthcare providers and resources.

The evaluation must also consider the degree of collaboration and communication among healthcare providers. Effective breast cancer care requires seamless coordination between PCPs, radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists. The analysis should assess the extent to which these providers work together, sharing patient information and coordinating care plans.

Data sources for this analysis would include publicly available information from healthcare providers, insurance companies, and government agencies. Patient reviews and surveys can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape in Jerome, Pennsylvania, requires careful scrutiny. The availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, and the presence of support services all play a critical role in determining the quality of care available to patients. By thoroughly assessing these factors, we can identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, ultimately working towards better outcomes for individuals facing this challenging disease.
To visualize this data and explore the healthcare landscape in Jerome and surrounding areas with interactive maps, visit CartoChrome maps.