The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16102, New Castle, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 96.10 percent of the residents in 16102 has some form of health insurance. 52.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.96 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 16102 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,297 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 8 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16102. An estimate of 12 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,118 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,327 health care providers accessible to residents in 16102, New Castle, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 16102, New Castle, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score | 45 |
---|---|
People Score | 19 |
Provider Score | 68 |
Hospital Score | 41 |
Travel Score | 57 |
16102 | New Castle | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
This analysis focuses on evaluating the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care within ZIP code 16102, encompassing New Castle, Pennsylvania, with a specific emphasis on primary care availability. We will assess various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive breast cancer support.
The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests heavily on accessible and robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) act as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screening, diagnosis, and referral processes. In New Castle (16102), assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical first step. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from healthcare directories, can help determine this ratio. Analyzing this data is essential to gauge the overall access to care.
Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors such as accreditation, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of comprehensive services. Practices accredited by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) often demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care and patient-centered practices. Patient reviews and testimonials, readily available online, provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Furthermore, practices that offer a full spectrum of services, including preventive screenings, chronic disease management, and coordinated care, are generally considered more desirable.
Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in expanding healthcare access, especially in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption in New Castle (16102) is a key indicator of the responsiveness of the local healthcare system. Examining the availability of telehealth services, particularly for breast cancer-related consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health support, is crucial. Healthcare providers’ websites, insurance coverage information, and public health initiatives can shed light on the extent of telemedicine integration. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate more frequent communication between patients and providers.
The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of comprehensive care. Assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the local healthcare ecosystem is essential. This includes evaluating the accessibility of these services, considering factors like insurance acceptance, wait times, and the availability of specialized support groups or programs. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is crucial to ensure seamless and integrated care for patients navigating the challenges of breast cancer.
A deeper dive into specific practices within 16102 will reveal further nuances. For example, the presence of a dedicated breast care center, offering comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services under one roof, can significantly enhance the patient experience. Such centers often provide specialized expertise, advanced imaging technologies, and a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses. Examining the affiliations of local practices with larger healthcare systems or hospitals can also provide insights into the resources and support available to patients.
The assessment of primary care availability extends beyond the number of physicians. It also involves evaluating the availability of support staff, such as nurses, medical assistants, and patient navigators. These individuals play a critical role in coordinating care, providing patient education, and addressing patient concerns. Practices with a robust support staff are often better equipped to manage the complex needs of patients with breast cancer.
Furthermore, understanding the insurance landscape in 16102 is critical. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, can significantly impact access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are generally more accessible to a broader population. Information on insurance coverage can be obtained from practice websites, insurance provider directories, and local community resources.
The quality of breast cancer care is also influenced by the availability of patient education and support resources. Practices that provide educational materials, support groups, and access to patient navigators demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients and improving their overall well-being. These resources can help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects, and provide emotional support throughout their journey.
In conclusion, evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in New Castle (16102) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, assessing the quality of primary care practices, evaluating the adoption of telemedicine, and examining the availability of mental health resources. The presence of dedicated breast care centers, the availability of support staff, and the acceptance of various insurance plans also play crucial roles. By considering these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement.
To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape in New Castle (16102) and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice details, and access to resources, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools to visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.
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