16404, Centerville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16404, Centerville, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.77 percent of the residents in 16404 has some form of health insurance. 47.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.05 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 16404 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 823 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16404. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 751 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 445 health care providers accessible to residents in 16404, Centerville, Pennsylvania.

The task of assessing the quality of breast cancer care within a specific geographic area, like ZIP code 16404 (which we'll assume encompasses Centerville, PA for the purpose of this analysis), necessitates a multifaceted approach. This involves evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the overall physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, and the integration of supportive resources like mental health services. We will also consider the adoption of telemedicine and identify any standout practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care.

The foundation of good breast cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a crucial role in screening, early detection, and referral. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Centerville involves examining the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code, the average patient load per physician, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. High patient-to-physician ratios and long wait times can indicate a strain on the healthcare system, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses.

A critical factor is the presence of specialized breast cancer services within or near Centerville. This includes access to certified radiologists for mammograms, experienced surgeons for biopsies and lumpectomies/mastectomies, and oncologists specializing in breast cancer treatment. The availability of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and access to clinical trials are also significant indicators of comprehensive care. Proximity to these services is vital, as travel distances can significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. Ideally, Centerville should have a sufficient number of physicians, both PCPs and specialists, to meet the healthcare needs of its population. A low ratio, meaning a high number of patients per physician, can lead to overburdened doctors, reduced appointment times, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more accessible healthcare system, allowing for more personalized care and timely interventions. Publicly available data from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be used to calculate this ratio, providing a valuable benchmark for the quality of care.

The integration of telemedicine into breast cancer care is another important consideration. Telemedicine offers the potential for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be physically located in Centerville. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing travel burdens and improving access to care. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local practices, the types of services offered remotely, and the availability of technical support for patients are all factors to evaluate.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but 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 professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for providing comprehensive care. Assessing the presence of these resources in Centerville, along with their accessibility and integration into the overall care plan, is a key element of this analysis.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided by individual physicians and healthcare facilities. This involves examining patient satisfaction surveys, reviewing clinical outcomes data (where available), and looking for evidence of innovative approaches to care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive screening programs, and the use of evidence-based treatment protocols should be recognized. These practices often have a positive impact on the overall quality of care in the community.

Analyzing breast cancer care also involves looking at the local hospital systems. Is there a dedicated breast cancer center? What is their accreditation status? Do they offer comprehensive services, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy? Do they participate in clinical trials? These factors contribute significantly to the quality and availability of care.

The analysis should also consider the presence of support services, such as patient navigators, who assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. Patient navigators can help patients schedule appointments, understand their treatment options, and access financial assistance. The availability of these services can significantly improve the patient experience and ensure that patients receive the care they need.

The assessment of primary care availability in Centerville requires a detailed investigation. This includes identifying the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, their specialties, and the types of insurance they accept. It is also important to assess the ease of access to these physicians, including appointment wait times, office hours, and after-hours care options. The presence of walk-in clinics or urgent care centers can also contribute to primary care availability.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the presence of community outreach programs and educational initiatives related to breast cancer. These programs can help raise awareness about the importance of early detection, promote screening mammograms, and provide information about treatment options and support services. The involvement of local organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or Susan G. Komen, can indicate a strong commitment to community health.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care in Centerville, PA (ZIP code 16404) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, specialized services, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the identification of standout practices. This multifaceted approach provides a more complete picture of the quality of care and helps identify areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Centerville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and access to support services, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of resources and help patients make informed decisions about their care.