16255, Sligo, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16255, Sligo, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.98 percent of the residents in 16255 has some form of health insurance. 38.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.55 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 16255 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 385 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16255. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 354 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 438 health care providers accessible to residents in 16255, Sligo, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sligo, PA (ZIP Code 16255)

Analyzing breast cancer care within Sligo, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16255) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician availability, primary care resources, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial components of comprehensive breast cancer treatment and patient well-being. The goal is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in this specific locale.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system rests upon accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, providing crucial screening recommendations, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Sligo, assessing primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, alongside information from local hospitals and clinics, is essential to determine this ratio accurately. We need to understand the average patient panel size for each PCP practicing within the ZIP code.

Furthermore, the geographic distribution of PCPs is critical. Are they clustered in one area, or are they dispersed throughout the community, making access easier for all residents? Public transportation options and the distance patients must travel to reach a PCP also play a significant role. A high concentration of PCPs in a central location, while potentially offering economies of scale, might disadvantage residents living in more remote areas of Sligo.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This includes the adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information sharing, and the provision of patient education materials. We must evaluate the practices’ adherence to guidelines set forth by organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. EHR integration facilitates seamless communication between PCPs, radiologists, and oncologists, ensuring coordinated care. The availability of patient education materials, in various formats and languages, empowers patients to understand their risk factors and make informed decisions about their health.

Specialist availability is another vital factor. The presence of oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer care within a reasonable distance is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. This analysis needs to identify the number of these specialists serving the Sligo area, their sub-specialties, and their affiliations with local hospitals. The proximity of these specialists to the community significantly impacts the patient experience. Long travel distances can be burdensome, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects.

Standout practices in the area, if any, should be identified. This could involve practices known for their patient-centered approach, their commitment to cutting-edge technology, or their strong community outreach programs. These practices often serve as models for other healthcare providers and can contribute to a higher overall Breast Cancer Score. Identifying these practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, assessing their accreditations, and examining their participation in clinical trials.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups remotely. This can reduce travel burdens, improve access to care, and enhance patient convenience. The analysis needs to assess the availability of telemedicine services for breast cancer patients in Sligo. This includes identifying the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the platforms used, and the reimbursement policies of local insurance providers.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is essential. This analysis must assess the availability of these resources in Sligo, including the presence of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care. The accessibility of these services, including their affordability and the availability of transportation, also needs to be evaluated.

The Breast Cancer Score should also consider the availability of support services. This includes access to patient navigators, who help patients navigate the healthcare system, and financial assistance programs, which can help patients manage the costs of treatment. Patient navigators can be invaluable in coordinating care, scheduling appointments, and providing emotional support. Financial assistance programs can help patients cover the costs of medications, transportation, and other expenses.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Sligo, PA, will be a composite of these factors. It is not a single number but rather a nuanced assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system. A high score indicates a well-resourced and accessible system, while a low score highlights areas that need improvement. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality of breast cancer care for residents of Sligo.

This analysis would ideally be dynamic, updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Factors like new physician arrivals, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the introduction of new treatment options can all impact the Breast Cancer Score. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents of Sligo have access to the best possible care.

To visualize the geographic distribution of these resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and areas with limited access, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps provide an interactive and intuitive way to understand the healthcare landscape in Sligo and identify areas where improvements are needed.