16347, Sheffield, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16347, Sheffield, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.89 percent of the residents in 16347 has some form of health insurance. 42.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.87 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 16347 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 383 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16347. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 412 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 456 health care providers accessible to residents in 16347, Sheffield, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sheffield, PA (ZIP Code 16347)

This analysis provides a detailed assessment of breast cancer care availability and related resources within the Sheffield, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16347) area. The focus is on evaluating primary care physician (PCP) access, specialist availability, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial elements in a comprehensive breast cancer care pathway. This is presented as a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, though no numerical score will be explicitly assigned. Instead, the analysis will highlight strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement.

The initial assessment centers on primary care physician (PCP) availability. A robust primary care network is the foundation of preventative care, including routine screenings and early detection. The physician-to-patient ratio in Sheffield, as with many rural areas, is likely a significant factor. Researching the number of active PCPs within the ZIP code, and comparing that to the estimated population, will provide a crucial baseline. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care. This scarcity can impact the ability to schedule regular mammograms and address any initial concerns promptly.

Further analysis would involve assessing the types of primary care practices available. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or larger, multi-specialty clinics? Larger clinics often have the advantage of integrated services, including on-site radiology for mammograms, which can streamline the diagnostic process. The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and women's health specialists within the primary care network is also critical. A diverse range of PCPs can provide more comprehensive care and facilitate referrals to specialists when needed.

Specialist availability is the next critical component. Breast cancer care necessitates access to oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists. The proximity of these specialists to Sheffield is a significant consideration. Does the local area have a dedicated breast cancer center or a network of specialists? The travel time to the nearest specialists, likely located in larger towns or cities, must be evaluated. Longer travel times can create barriers to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The availability of surgical options, including breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy, is also essential.

Identifying "standout practices" within or serving the Sheffield area requires a deeper dive. This involves researching individual practices and assessing their commitment to breast cancer care. Key indicators include the use of evidence-based guidelines, participation in clinical trials, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that proactively promote breast cancer awareness, offer educational resources, and have dedicated patient navigators are likely to provide a higher level of care. Checking online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites for information on these factors is crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps and improve access to specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local practices and specialists is crucial. Do they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals? The availability of telehealth options can significantly reduce the burden of travel and improve the overall patient experience. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and accessibility.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for patients and their families. The analysis should investigate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Sheffield area or nearby. Are there mental health services integrated into the primary care practices or cancer centers? Support groups, both in-person and virtual, are also valuable resources. The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care.

The availability of financial assistance programs and support services is another factor to consider. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can exacerbate the emotional and physical challenges of the disease. Researching the availability of programs that provide financial assistance, such as grants, co-pay assistance, and transportation support, is essential. Patient navigators often play a key role in connecting patients with these resources.

Finally, the analysis should consider the overall community environment and health literacy levels. The availability of community health programs, educational resources, and public health initiatives can impact breast cancer awareness and early detection rates. Assessing the level of health literacy within the community is also important. Higher health literacy levels enable patients to make informed decisions about their care and actively participate in their treatment plans.

In conclusion, the “Breast Cancer Score” analysis for Sheffield, PA (ZIP Code 16347) reveals a complex picture. The success of breast cancer care in Sheffield will depend on the interplay of several factors, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. While a comprehensive assessment requires detailed data collection and analysis, the initial investigation reveals the importance of addressing potential access barriers and strengthening the local healthcare infrastructure to ensure that residents receive the best possible care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sheffield, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping solutions can provide a valuable perspective on the geographical distribution of healthcare services and help identify areas where improvements are needed.