16124, Fredonia, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16124, Fredonia, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.85 percent of the residents in 16124 has some form of health insurance. 32.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.40 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 16124 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 413 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16124. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 312 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,008 health care providers accessible to residents in 16124, Fredonia, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16124 & Primary Care in Fredonia

This analysis delves into the quality of breast cancer care available within ZIP Code 16124 and assesses the primary care landscape in Fredonia, focusing on factors that influence a patient's journey from screening to survivorship. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, empowering individuals to make informed healthcare decisions.

**ZIP Code 16124: A Microcosm of Breast Cancer Care**

ZIP Code 16124, encompassing a specific geographical area, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in the realm of breast cancer care. To assess the quality of care, several key indicators are considered. One critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically the availability of primary care physicians, radiologists specializing in mammography, oncologists, and surgeons proficient in breast cancer treatment. A low ratio in any of these specialties can lead to delayed diagnoses, treatment bottlenecks, and increased patient anxiety.

The presence of accredited breast centers is another crucial element. These centers adhere to rigorous standards set by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). Accreditation signifies a commitment to comprehensive care, including advanced imaging technologies, multidisciplinary teams, and patient navigation services. The lack of such accreditation raises concerns about the quality and coordination of care.

Standout practices within 16124 are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. This includes offering flexible appointment scheduling, providing clear and accessible information about breast cancer, and fostering a supportive environment. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research initiatives also contribute to advancing breast cancer treatment and improving patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is an increasingly important factor, particularly for residents in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely, reducing the burden of travel and improving access to care. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of on-site counselors, support groups, and referrals to mental health professionals is a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

**Primary Care Availability in Fredonia: The Foundation of Early Detection**

The primary care landscape in Fredonia plays a pivotal role in breast cancer detection and prevention. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients, and their ability to provide timely screenings, such as mammograms, is critical. The availability of primary care physicians, the wait times for appointments, and the ease of access to screening services are all essential considerations.

The primary care physician-to-patient ratio in Fredonia is a key indicator of access to care. A high ratio may indicate a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative services. This can delay the detection of breast cancer and negatively impact patient outcomes.

The presence of primary care practices that offer comprehensive breast cancer screening services is also important. This includes providing mammograms on-site or having established referral pathways to local imaging centers. Practices that proactively encourage and facilitate breast cancer screening demonstrate a commitment to preventative care.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) by primary care practices can also impact the quality of care. EHRs allow physicians to track patient health history, schedule screenings, and coordinate care with specialists more efficiently. This can improve the overall quality of care and reduce the risk of errors.

The availability of patient education materials and resources in primary care practices is another important factor. Providing patients with information about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and self-examination techniques can empower them to take an active role in their health. Practices that prioritize patient education demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and patient empowerment.

**Specific Considerations and Challenges**

Within ZIP Code 16124, specific practices should be assessed based on their adherence to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. These guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Practices that follow these guidelines demonstrate a commitment to providing the highest quality of care.

In Fredonia, the availability of transportation services for patients needing to travel to screening appointments or treatment centers should be considered. Lack of transportation can be a significant barrier to accessing care, particularly for elderly or low-income patients.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

Evaluating breast cancer care involves a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, the presence of accredited centers, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Both ZIP Code 16124 and Fredonia face unique challenges and opportunities in providing comprehensive breast cancer care. Understanding these factors is crucial for patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

For a comprehensive, data-driven visualization of healthcare resources in your area, including physician locations, hospital accreditations, and primary care availability, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer an interactive platform to analyze healthcare data and make informed decisions about your health.