16311, Carlton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16311, Carlton, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.00 percent of the residents in 16311 has some form of health insurance. 41.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.50 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 16311 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 64 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16311. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 93 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,655 health care providers accessible to residents in 16311, Carlton, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 16311, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians and associated resources in Carlton, Pennsylvania. This assessment considers factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support.

Carlton, Pennsylvania, situated within ZIP Code 16311, presents a unique healthcare environment. Evaluating the accessibility of breast cancer care necessitates a deep dive into the primary care foundation upon which specialized services are built. A strong primary care network is the cornerstone of early detection and effective management.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. While specific, up-to-the-minute data requires real-time analysis, publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can offer insights. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments and more personalized care. Conversely, a higher ratio may signify longer wait times and potential challenges in establishing a consistent patient-physician relationship, crucial for breast cancer screening and follow-up.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio requires considering the geographical distribution of primary care providers within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. Are primary care practices clustered in specific locations, potentially creating access disparities for residents in more rural parts of Carlton? The availability of transportation options, particularly for those with mobility limitations, further influences access. Public transportation and ride-sharing services are essential considerations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the specialization of primary care physicians matters. Do the primary care physicians in the area have experience in women's health and cancer screening? Do they have strong working relationships with local specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists? The presence of board-certified family medicine or internal medicine physicians with a focus on preventative care and early detection is highly beneficial.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes a proactive approach to screening, patient education, and timely referrals to specialists. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient history, manage appointments, and coordinate care across different providers are particularly noteworthy. The integration of patient navigators, individuals who assist patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, can significantly improve the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and provide patient education can significantly enhance access to care. Practices that offer telemedicine options can reach patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments, improving their ability to manage their health. The availability of telehealth services also provides a means to connect patients with specialists located outside of the immediate Carlton area.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals can provide essential support to patients. Access to support groups and educational resources can also help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of their journey.

The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is another important factor. These groups provide patients with a safe space to share their experiences, connect with others facing similar challenges, and receive emotional support. The availability of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and online resources, can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

The integration of these elements – physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – paints a complete picture of the breast cancer care landscape in Carlton. A practice that excels in all of these areas creates a more supportive and effective environment for patients.

To fully understand the healthcare landscape, including specific physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, a visual representation is invaluable. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive platform to explore this data. By visualizing the distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant information, CartoChrome maps can help patients and healthcare providers alike make informed decisions.

CartoChrome maps can be used to identify areas with limited access to care, highlight standout practices, and visualize the availability of mental health resources. The interactive nature of these maps allows users to zoom in, filter data, and explore the healthcare landscape in detail.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in Carlton, Pennsylvania, and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps.