15957, Strongstown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15957, Strongstown, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.33 percent of the residents in 15957 has some form of health insurance. 41.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.28 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 15957 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 73 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15957. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 84 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 897 health care providers accessible to residents in 15957, Strongstown, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Strongstown, PA (ZIP Code 15957)**

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the Strongstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15957) area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for residents seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Strongstown, a small community, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The limited population density often translates to fewer healthcare providers compared to urban centers. This scarcity necessitates a careful examination of the existing resources and their capacity to meet the community's needs. The analysis will consider the overall healthcare landscape, focusing on the aspects most relevant to breast cancer care.

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

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. PCPs are crucial for preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Strongstown is paramount. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the specific number of PCPs practicing within the 15957 ZIP code, and comparing this number to the local population, is the starting point. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be used to determine the population size and cross-referenced with databases like the Pennsylvania Medical Society to identify the number of active PCPs.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they concentrated in a single practice, or are they spread across multiple locations? This distribution affects accessibility, especially for residents with mobility limitations or those living in more rural areas within the ZIP code. The presence of any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics, which often serve underserved populations, is also a critical factor.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying any standout practices within the area involves evaluating several factors. This includes the availability of on-site mammography services, which streamlines the screening process. Practices that offer comprehensive breast health programs, including education and support services, are particularly valuable. Another key factor is the practice's affiliation with larger healthcare systems or hospitals. Affiliation often provides access to advanced diagnostic tools, specialized expertise, and clinical trials.

Research should focus on practices with a proven track record in breast cancer care. This involves examining patient reviews, if available, and investigating the practice's commitment to preventative care. Look for practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness and offer convenient appointment scheduling. The presence of a dedicated breast health navigator, who can guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is a significant advantage.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs and specialists in Strongstown is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for in-person visits and mitigating travel barriers.

The analysis should assess the types of telemedicine services offered, such as video consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and the use of patient portals for communication. The availability of telemedicine for breast cancer-related services, such as consultations with oncologists or breast surgeons, is particularly important. The level of patient satisfaction with telemedicine services, as measured through surveys or feedback mechanisms, is also a crucial factor.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The analysis should evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the 15957 ZIP code or in nearby communities.

The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, is also crucial. Support groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences, connect with others facing similar challenges, and receive emotional support. The availability of mental health services specifically tailored to the needs of breast cancer patients is a significant advantage. The analysis should also assess the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, ensuring that patients have access to the support they need throughout their journey.

**Overall Breast Cancer Score and Recommendations**

Based on the assessment of the factors discussed above, a "Breast Cancer Score" can be assigned to the Strongstown area. This score will reflect the overall availability, accessibility, and quality of breast cancer care within the community. The score will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The analysis will conclude with specific recommendations for improving breast cancer care in Strongstown. These recommendations may include increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, promoting breast cancer awareness, and strengthening the integration of mental health services into the care plan. The recommendations will be tailored to the specific needs of the community, based on the findings of the analysis.

**Call to Action**

For a more detailed, visually rich understanding of healthcare resources in the Strongstown area, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource distribution, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive, data-driven maps that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.