15955, Sidman, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15955, Sidman, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.94 percent of the residents in 15955 has some form of health insurance. 37.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.71 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 15955 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 391 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15955. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 499 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,147 health care providers accessible to residents in 15955, Sidman, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sidman, PA (ZIP Code 15955)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within Sidman, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15955), focusing on primary care physician availability, physician practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to assess the "Breast Cancer Score" for this specific area, providing insights for residents seeking care and highlighting areas for potential improvement. The analysis will not include any lists, maintaining a conversational flow.

Sidman, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area often translates to fewer healthcare providers compared to more densely populated regions. This can significantly impact the ability of residents to receive timely screenings, diagnoses, and treatment for breast cancer. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the foundation of this healthcare ecosystem, as they are often the first point of contact for patients and play a crucial role in preventative care and referrals.

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

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Sidman requires accessing data from various sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau. However, the general trend in rural areas like this is a lower ratio compared to urban centers. This means there are fewer doctors per capita, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances for residents. This scarcity can directly impact the timeliness of breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, and diagnostic follow-ups.

The impact of this ratio is further compounded by the aging population often found in rural communities. Older individuals are generally more susceptible to health issues, including breast cancer, and may require more frequent medical attention. The limited availability of PCPs can therefore create a bottleneck in the healthcare system, delaying crucial interventions.

**Standout Practices and their Contributions:**

While specific practice names are difficult to pinpoint without detailed local research, the analysis will assume that practices in the surrounding areas, such as Johnstown, PA, are accessible to Sidman residents. These practices can be evaluated based on their commitment to breast cancer care. The standout practices in this area often demonstrate a proactive approach to preventative care. This includes offering convenient mammography scheduling, promoting breast cancer awareness campaigns, and actively educating patients on risk factors and self-examination techniques.

Furthermore, the practices may have established relationships with specialized breast cancer centers or surgeons, facilitating seamless referrals for further diagnosis and treatment. Some practices might also participate in clinical trials or research studies, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and contributing to advancements in breast cancer care. The presence of certified breast health navigators within these practices is also a strong indicator of a commitment to patient support and coordination of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within the Sidman area and the surrounding region is a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists.

For breast cancer care, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, and providing mental health support. The availability of telehealth platforms that offer secure video consultations and remote monitoring capabilities can significantly enhance the patient experience and improve the overall quality of care. The practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it into their standard workflows will likely score higher on the Breast Cancer Score.

**Mental Health Resources and their Significance:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups within the Sidman area is a key indicator of the quality of care.

Ideally, practices should have established partnerships with mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. These partnerships can facilitate referrals and ensure that patients receive the necessary support to cope with the emotional challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide a valuable platform for patients to connect with others who understand their experiences.

**Overall Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, the Breast Cancer Score for Sidman, PA (ZIP code 15955) is likely moderate. The rural nature of the area presents challenges in terms of physician availability and access to specialized care. However, the presence of dedicated practices in the surrounding areas, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can contribute to a more positive score.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the Breast Cancer Score, several actions can be taken. Increasing the number of PCPs in the area is crucial. This could be achieved through incentives for physicians to practice in rural areas, such as loan forgiveness programs or tax breaks. Expanding telemedicine services and promoting their use can also significantly improve access to care. Furthermore, strengthening partnerships between primary care practices and specialized breast cancer centers can ensure seamless referrals and coordination of care. Finally, increasing the availability of mental health resources, specifically those tailored to cancer patients, is essential for supporting the emotional well-being of those affected by breast cancer.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sidman, PA, and visualize the availability of resources, consider utilizing the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the location of healthcare providers, support groups, and other relevant resources, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Explore CartoChrome maps today to see how they can help you navigate the healthcare landscape in your community.