15951, Saint Michael, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15951, Saint Michael, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.15 percent of the residents in 15951 has some form of health insurance. 72.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.42 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 15951 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 15951. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 211 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,219 health care providers accessible to residents in 15951, Saint Michael, Pennsylvania.

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 15951, encompassing the town of Saint Michael, Pennsylvania. We will assess the availability and quality of care, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals seeking breast cancer-related services.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and proficient primary care. In Saint Michael, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the timeliness of screenings, referrals, and overall patient management. A robust primary care network is crucial for early detection, a key factor in improving patient outcomes. Assessing the density of primary care providers per capita within 15951 is a critical first step. This involves analyzing the number of practicing primary care physicians (including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners) and comparing it to the population size. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial diagnostic procedures.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Saint Michael and the surrounding areas of 15951 requires careful scrutiny. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from professional medical organizations, can provide insights into this ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per resident, could indicate potential access challenges. Analyzing the distribution of these physicians within the ZIP Code is equally important. Are they clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This spatial analysis is vital for identifying potential healthcare deserts and ensuring equitable access to care.

Identifying standout practices within the 15951 area is crucial. These practices often demonstrate superior patient outcomes, employ innovative treatment approaches, and offer comprehensive services. This includes assessing their adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment, their patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of specialized services such as genetic counseling and breast surgery. Information on these practices can be gleaned from patient reviews, hospital quality reports, and physician directories. Practices with a multidisciplinary approach, integrating primary care, radiology, oncology, and surgical expertise, are often considered best-in-class.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas like Saint Michael. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services among primary care physicians and specialists within 15951 is vital. This includes assessing the types of telemedicine platforms used, the range of services offered via telehealth, and the accessibility of these services to patients, including those with limited technological literacy. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve patient convenience and access to care.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the 15951 area is crucial. This includes evaluating the proximity of these professionals to primary care practices and oncology centers, the types of mental health services offered (individual therapy, group therapy, support groups), and the accessibility of these services (insurance coverage, appointment availability). Integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is essential for supporting patients' well-being.

The overall score for breast cancer care in 15951 is a composite measure reflecting all the factors discussed above. A high score would indicate a robust primary care network, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest potential challenges in accessing and receiving quality breast cancer care.

The analysis of breast cancer care within 15951 reveals a complex picture. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of advanced treatment centers, and the integration of mental health services are all important factors. The availability of telemedicine and the commitment of local providers to evidence-based practices will ultimately determine the quality of care available to residents.

To gain a deeper understanding of the spatial distribution of healthcare resources within 15951 and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive, data-driven visualizations that can illuminate the healthcare landscape, helping you make informed decisions about your health.