16401, Albion, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16401, Albion, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.64 percent of the residents in 16401 has some form of health insurance. 47.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.75 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 16401 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 949 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16401. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 754 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 367 health care providers accessible to residents in 16401, Albion, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides a preliminary assessment of breast cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 16401 (Albion, Pennsylvania), focusing on factors impacting patient outcomes. This evaluation considers physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, acknowledging the limitations of publicly available data and the need for ongoing, more granular research. It is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informed overview.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Albion is a critical starting point. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing and analyzing data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association (AMA), and potentially local hospital systems. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and a potential strain on existing healthcare providers. This situation can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including those with limited transportation options or financial constraints. A higher ratio, conversely, suggests greater accessibility, although this alone does not guarantee quality of care.

Assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is fundamental. PCPs act as the gatekeepers to the healthcare system, providing essential preventative care, referrals to specialists, and ongoing management of chronic conditions. The number of PCPs actively practicing in Albion, their specialties (e.g., internal medicine, family medicine), and their willingness to accept new patients directly impact breast cancer detection and treatment. Delays in diagnosis due to PCP shortages can lead to later-stage detection and reduced survival rates.

Identifying standout practices requires a multifaceted approach. Factors to consider include the number of board-certified physicians, the availability of on-site mammography and other imaging services, and affiliations with larger healthcare networks or cancer centers. Practices with strong reputations for patient satisfaction, as reflected in online reviews and patient testimonials, are also important. The presence of dedicated breast cancer specialists (e.g., oncologists, surgeons, radiologists) within or easily accessible to the community is a significant advantage. Furthermore, the integration of multidisciplinary care, where specialists collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans, is a hallmark of high-quality breast cancer care.

Telemedicine adoption is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility and innovation. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals enhance convenience and can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health counseling, all crucial aspects of breast cancer care. The availability of telemedicine services, however, must be coupled with considerations of digital literacy, internet access, and insurance coverage to ensure equitable access for all patients.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a vital component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients is crucial. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Support groups, educational programs, and access to palliative care services are also important elements of a supportive care environment.

Specific practice examples within 16401 are difficult to identify definitively without more granular data. However, it is possible to infer general characteristics based on publicly available information. For instance, the presence of a hospital system in or near Albion could indicate a higher likelihood of access to specialists, imaging services, and cancer treatment facilities. Analyzing the affiliations of local physicians with these systems can provide insights into the availability of resources and the level of collaboration among healthcare providers.

Furthermore, assessing the availability of community resources, such as cancer support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and transportation services, is critical. These resources can provide invaluable support to patients navigating the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The presence of these resources can significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care and primary care accessibility in Albion (16401) requires a detailed evaluation of physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While this analysis provides a preliminary overview, a more comprehensive assessment would necessitate access to more granular data and ongoing monitoring of healthcare trends. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, ultimately improving access to high-quality, patient-centered care for all residents of Albion and the surrounding communities.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Albion (16401) and other areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for analyzing geographic data and visualizing healthcare resources, allowing for a deeper understanding of access to care and the distribution of healthcare providers.