16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.63 percent of the residents in 16224 has some form of health insurance. 45.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.62 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 16224 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 197 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16224. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 265 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 474 health care providers accessible to residents in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Fairmount City (ZIP Code 16224)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Fairmount City, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16224), necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), their capacity to address breast cancer risk factors, and the broader healthcare infrastructure supporting early detection and treatment. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive breast cancer care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer management rests upon strong primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a critical role in preventative care, risk assessment, and timely referrals. In Fairmount City, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs is a key indicator of accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings and consultations. Accurate data on this ratio is vital. Publicly available resources, such as those from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), should be consulted to determine the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code. This data provides a baseline for understanding the overall availability of primary care services.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves assessing the practices’ commitment to evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and risk assessment. Do practices routinely offer mammograms or refer patients to imaging centers? Are they proactively discussing family history, lifestyle factors, and other risk indicators? Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to breast cancer prevention and early detection should be recognized as standout performers. This could involve identifying practices with a strong track record of patient education, adherence to screening guidelines, and efficient referral processes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Fairmount City. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who may face transportation challenges or geographic limitations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among local practices is crucial. Do PCPs offer virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, or discussions of test results? Are they leveraging telehealth platforms to connect patients with specialists, such as oncologists or radiologists? Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, which can be especially beneficial for women managing breast cancer concerns.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be profound. Access to mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive care. This includes evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Fairmount City area. Are these professionals integrated into the healthcare system, allowing for seamless referrals from PCPs? Do local hospitals or clinics offer support groups or counseling services specifically for breast cancer patients? The presence of robust mental health resources can significantly improve patient outcomes by addressing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with the disease.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive beyond basic metrics. This involves reviewing patient satisfaction surveys, assessing the availability of specialized services, and examining the practice’s commitment to patient education. Practices that excel in these areas should be highlighted. For example, a practice that offers comprehensive breast cancer risk assessment, provides patient navigators to guide patients through the healthcare system, and actively participates in community outreach programs would be considered a standout performer.

The analysis of primary care availability in Fairmount City must also consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the presence of local hospitals, imaging centers, and oncology practices. Are these facilities equipped with the latest technology for breast cancer detection and treatment, such as 3D mammography and advanced radiation therapy? Are there established referral pathways between PCPs and these specialists? The seamless coordination of care between different healthcare providers is essential for ensuring timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the demographics of the population served by the local healthcare providers. Are there disparities in access to care based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status? Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to breast cancer screening and treatment for all women in Fairmount City. This may involve identifying and addressing barriers to care, such as language barriers, transportation challenges, or financial constraints.

The assessment of breast cancer care in Fairmount City is not a static process. It requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Regular updates to the physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources are essential. Furthermore, practices should be encouraged to continuously improve their services based on patient feedback and the latest medical advancements.

In conclusion, the quality of breast cancer care in Fairmount City is a product of accessible primary care, proactive screening practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A comprehensive analysis, taking into account all these factors, is crucial for identifying areas of strength and weakness. This will help in developing strategies to improve access to care and ensure that all women in Fairmount City have the opportunity to receive the best possible breast cancer care.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics within Fairmount City and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the population they serve, helping to inform decision-making and improve access to care.