16146, Sharon, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16146, Sharon, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.56 percent of the residents in 16146 has some form of health insurance. 57.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.10 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 16146 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,800 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16146. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,158 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,100 health care providers accessible to residents in 16146, Sharon, Pennsylvania.

This analysis evaluates the quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 16146 (Sharon, Pennsylvania) and assesses the availability of primary care, considering factors crucial for patient well-being and successful treatment outcomes. We'll explore physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources. This comprehensive overview aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sharon, Pennsylvania, focusing on breast cancer care and related services.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, the overall density of physicians, particularly those specializing in oncology, radiology, and surgery, within a given area significantly impacts patient experience. ZIP code 16146, being a relatively small geographic area, may experience variations in this ratio based on the broader regional healthcare network. Patients in Sharon often rely on specialists and facilities in nearby cities like Youngstown, Ohio, or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for advanced care. Therefore, a direct physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code alone may not fully reflect the access patients have.

Standout practices in Sharon and the surrounding areas are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes early detection through advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), timely and accurate diagnosis, and multidisciplinary treatment planning. Practices that integrate oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and support staff into a cohesive team often provide superior patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials and offer access to cutting-edge research are highly valued. Identifying these standout practices requires a thorough review of patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., accreditation by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer), and the types of services offered.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and provide remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, particularly those that offer secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring tools, are better positioned to serve patients effectively. The degree to which telemedicine is integrated into the breast cancer care pathway, from initial consultations to survivorship care, is a key factor in evaluating the quality of care.

Mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, are better equipped to support patients through their journey. The integration of mental health professionals into the care team, or strong referral networks to such services, is a critical indicator of a practice's commitment to holistic patient care.

Primary care availability in Sharon is a crucial factor in overall healthcare access. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in preventive care, early detection of potential health issues, and coordinating care with specialists. The availability of PCPs, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans are all important considerations. Patients with breast cancer often rely on their PCPs for ongoing health management, medication management, and coordination of care with their oncology team. A strong primary care infrastructure is essential for ensuring that patients receive the comprehensive care they need.

Specifics within ZIP code 16146 require granular investigation. Local hospitals and clinics, such as UPMC Jameson, serve the region. However, it’s important to assess the specific services offered by these facilities. For instance, what is the availability of dedicated breast centers, the types of imaging equipment available, and the expertise of the radiologists and surgeons? Are there dedicated breast cancer navigators to guide patients through the complex healthcare system? The answers to these questions will help determine the quality of breast cancer care in the area.

Furthermore, evaluating the referral patterns of primary care physicians in Sharon is important. Where do they typically refer patients for mammograms, biopsies, and cancer treatment? Are these referrals to local facilities or to larger regional centers? The answers to these questions shed light on the accessibility of specialized care and the strength of the local healthcare network.

Analyzing the insurance landscape is also crucial. Does the area have a high concentration of patients covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance plans? The acceptance of various insurance plans by healthcare providers can impact access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are generally more accessible to a diverse patient population.

The availability of support groups and patient education resources is another important factor. Does the area have local chapters of organizations like the American Cancer Society or the National Breast Cancer Foundation? Are there educational programs and resources available to help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects? The availability of such resources can empower patients and improve their overall experience.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare delivery must also be considered. Did the pandemic disrupt access to care, delay screenings, or impact treatment protocols? Understanding how the local healthcare system adapted to the pandemic is important for evaluating its resilience and its ability to provide quality care in challenging circumstances.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Sharon, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining mental health resources are all crucial. Additionally, understanding primary care availability, referral patterns, insurance coverage, and the availability of support services is essential. This comprehensive evaluation provides a more accurate picture of the healthcare landscape in the area and helps patients make informed decisions about their care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Sharon, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide detailed geographic visualizations of healthcare facilities, physician locations, and other relevant data, allowing you to see the healthcare landscape in a new and informative way.