16340, Pittsfield, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16340, Pittsfield, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.00 percent of the residents in 16340 has some form of health insurance. 36.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.70 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 16340 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 403 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16340. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 364 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 529 health care providers accessible to residents in 16340, Pittsfield, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Pittsfield, PA (ZIP Code 16340)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care availability and quality within Pittsfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16340). The focus is on evaluating the resources available to patients, specifically considering physician access, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The goal is to establish a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the overall strength of the local healthcare ecosystem in supporting breast cancer patients.

Pittsfield, a small rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Limited population density often translates to fewer healthcare providers, potentially impacting access to specialized care. This analysis will delve into the specific realities of the region, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**

One of the primary indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the precise ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists within ZIP Code 16340 requires data analysis from various sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association, and local hospital systems. This data must be cross-referenced to accurately reflect the availability of physicians who actively serve the community. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for PCPs, can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments for preventative screenings and initial consultations, vital steps in early breast cancer detection.

Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is crucial. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer require a multidisciplinary approach, necessitating coordinated care from various specialists. The presence of these specialists within the community or in close proximity (e.g., within a reasonable driving distance) is a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score. The analysis will assess the distance patients must travel to access these specialists and the potential impact on their care.

**Primary Care Availability:**

The availability of primary care is paramount. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screening recommendations, and referrals to specialists. The number of PCPs actively practicing in Pittsfield, their patient load, and their ability to accept new patients are essential metrics. The analysis will investigate the appointment wait times for PCPs, as prolonged wait times can delay critical screenings and diagnosis.

The analysis will also examine the availability of female PCPs, as some patients may prefer to consult with a female physician, particularly when discussing sensitive health issues. This aspect contributes to patient comfort and overall satisfaction with care.

**Standout Practices and Services:**

Identifying standout practices within the community is a key component of the Breast Cancer Score. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care, early detection programs, or innovative treatment approaches. The analysis will focus on several criteria:

* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Practices with accreditations from organizations like the American College of Radiology (for mammography services) or the Commission on Cancer (for comprehensive cancer programs) are highly valued.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Analyzing patient reviews and testimonials provides valuable insights into the quality of care, the physician-patient relationship, and the overall patient experience.
* **Specialized Programs:** Practices offering specialized breast cancer programs, such as genetic counseling, survivorship programs, or support groups, are particularly beneficial.
* **Advanced Technology:** The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), can improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection.
* **Coordination of Care:** Practices that demonstrate effective coordination of care between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers receive higher scores.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine services by local practices. This includes the availability of virtual consultations for initial appointments, follow-up care, and mental health support. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for patients who face transportation challenges or live in geographically isolated areas.

The analysis will evaluate the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease of access for patients. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care models will receive higher scores.

**Mental Health Resources:**

The emotional impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Access to mental health resources is crucial for patients. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community or nearby. This includes the availability of:

* **On-site mental health services within medical practices or hospitals.**
* **Referral pathways to mental health professionals specializing in cancer care.**
* **Support groups for breast cancer patients and survivors.**
* **Access to mental health services through telemedicine.**

The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the strength of the local healthcare system in providing comprehensive mental health support.

**Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Pittsfield, PA (ZIP Code 16340) will be a composite measure, reflecting the availability of resources, the quality of care, and the accessibility of services. This analysis will provide a valuable snapshot of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. It will serve as a resource for patients seeking care, healthcare providers striving to enhance their services, and policymakers aiming to improve healthcare access in the region.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pittsfield and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the data analyzed in this report, offering a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare ecosystem.

**Visit CartoChrome maps today to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community!**