16361, Tylersburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16361, Tylersburg, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16361 has some form of health insurance. 42.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.14 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 16361 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16361. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 9 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 502 health care providers accessible to residents in 16361, Tylersburg, Pennsylvania.

The task of assessing breast cancer care within a specific geographic area, such as ZIP code 16361 (which encompasses the Tylersburg, Pennsylvania area), requires a multifaceted approach. A "Breast Cancer Score," while not a formally recognized metric, can be constructed by evaluating several key factors impacting patient outcomes and access to care. This analysis will focus on the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources within the context of breast cancer treatment and support.

The foundation of any successful breast cancer journey rests upon robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) act as gatekeepers, providing preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In the relatively rural setting of Tylersburg, Pennsylvania, the availability of PCPs is crucial. Assessing the number of practicing PCPs within the 16361 ZIP code and the surrounding areas is the first step. This data, combined with population figures, allows for the calculation of a physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could signal potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and care. This can be particularly problematic for women needing regular mammograms and follow-up appointments.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is also important. Are the physicians concentrated in a single location, or are they spread throughout the area, ensuring accessibility for residents in different parts of Tylersburg and the surrounding communities? The proximity of these practices to transportation routes, including public transit if available, should also be considered. This is particularly relevant for older adults or those with mobility limitations who may face difficulties traveling long distances for appointments.

Identifying standout practices within the region is another crucial element. This involves researching the quality of care provided by local medical facilities. This can be determined by looking at factors such as the accreditation of the practices and hospitals, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment (e.g., digital mammography, MRI), and the presence of multidisciplinary teams. A multidisciplinary team approach, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses, is considered best practice in breast cancer care. These teams facilitate comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs.

The adoption of telemedicine has dramatically changed healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers opportunities for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and even support groups. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption by local practices is a key factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." Are physicians offering virtual consultations for patients who live far from the clinic or have mobility issues? Are they utilizing remote monitoring technologies to track patient progress? The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient outcomes.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient’s emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore an essential element in the "Breast Cancer Score." Does the local medical community offer access to mental health professionals specializing in oncology? Are support groups available for patients and their families? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

Specific examples of medical practices within or near ZIP code 16361 should be researched to illustrate the above points. This could involve identifying the hospitals or clinics that serve the area, and then gathering information about their services. Are there any practices that stand out for their commitment to early detection, such as offering convenient mammogram scheduling and reminders? Are there any practices that have a strong track record of patient satisfaction and positive outcomes? This information can be found through online reviews, patient testimonials, and publicly available data.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Tylersburg, PA (ZIP code 16361) would ideally incorporate data from several sources. Information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, local hospital websites, and physician directories would be critical. Furthermore, patient feedback, gathered through surveys or focus groups, could provide valuable insights into the patient experience. This feedback could be used to assess the accessibility of care, the quality of communication between physicians and patients, and the overall level of support provided.

The physician-to-patient ratio in the 16361 area is a key factor. If the ratio is low, it can indicate a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. This would negatively impact the "Breast Cancer Score." Conversely, a high ratio, combined with readily available specialists and support services, would contribute to a higher score.

The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center or a program within a local hospital would be a significant positive factor. These centers often offer comprehensive services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support, all in one location. This can streamline the patient experience and improve outcomes.

The availability of transportation services, such as shuttle services to medical appointments, is another important consideration. This is especially relevant for patients who do not have access to a car or who are unable to drive themselves.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 16361 and primary care availability in Tylersburg requires a comprehensive assessment. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. This information can be used to identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system and to inform efforts to improve breast cancer care in the community.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and transportation options, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape in the Tylersburg area, helping to identify areas with limited access to care and informing strategies to improve patient outcomes.