16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.31 percent of the residents in 16426 has some form of health insurance. 43.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.83 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 16426 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 596 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16426. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 844 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 635 health care providers accessible to residents in 16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16426 & Primary Care in McKean

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care resources and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 16426 (likely encompassing a portion of McKean County, Pennsylvania), evaluating the landscape for patients seeking screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The assessment considers various factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support, all crucial components of holistic breast cancer care. While a definitive "score" is challenging to assign without access to proprietary data, this analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). These physicians serve as the initial point of contact, providing preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and guiding patients through the diagnostic process. Assessing primary care availability in McKean County is critical. While specific physician-to-patient ratios are difficult to determine precisely without access to real-time data, the overall population density of the county suggests that access to PCPs may be a challenge. Rural areas often face shortages, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hindering timely diagnosis. The availability of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, further impacts the quality of care. Patients in rural settings may need to travel significant distances to access specialized services, creating logistical and emotional burdens.

Examining the characteristics of individual practices within and around ZIP code 16426 is essential. Are there any standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care? This includes factors like the availability of on-site mammography services, the use of advanced imaging techniques, and the presence of dedicated breast cancer navigators. Practices that offer these services can significantly improve patient outcomes by streamlining the diagnostic and treatment process. Conversely, practices lacking these resources may necessitate referrals to external facilities, potentially delaying care and increasing patient anxiety. Investigating the types of insurance accepted by each practice is also vital. Ensuring that practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is crucial for ensuring equitable access to care for all residents.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is especially valuable for follow-up appointments, consultations with oncologists, and access to support groups. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among practices in ZIP code 16426 is a key indicator of accessibility. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide convenient and timely care, improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden of travel. The availability of telehealth consultations for mental health services is particularly important, given the emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis.

The integration of mental health resources into breast cancer care is a critical component of holistic treatment. A breast cancer diagnosis can trigger a range of emotions, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients throughout their journey. Investigating the availability of mental health services within the practices in ZIP code 16426, as well as the presence of partnerships with mental health providers, is a key aspect of this analysis. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care and can significantly improve patient well-being. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, also play a vital role in providing emotional support and fostering a sense of community among patients.

The analysis should also consider the presence of community resources. Are there local organizations that provide support services for breast cancer patients, such as financial assistance, transportation, or educational programs? The existence of these resources can significantly ease the burden on patients and their families. Partnerships between medical practices and community organizations can create a more integrated and supportive healthcare ecosystem. This includes collaborations with cancer support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and local hospitals.

Furthermore, the analysis should examine the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) and the interoperability of these systems. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between different healthcare providers, ensuring continuity of care. Practices that have adopted EHRs and are able to seamlessly share information with other providers are better positioned to provide coordinated and efficient care. The ability to access and share patient data is particularly important in the context of breast cancer care, where patients often require the involvement of multiple specialists.

Evaluating the quality of breast cancer screening programs is also crucial. This includes assessing the mammography equipment used by local practices, the qualifications of the radiologists who interpret the mammograms, and the adherence to national screening guidelines. Practices that prioritize high-quality screening programs are better positioned to detect breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment is most effective. The use of advanced imaging techniques, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), can further improve the accuracy of screening and reduce the number of false positives.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 16426, and its surrounding area, presents a complex interplay of factors that impact breast cancer care. While the rural nature of the area presents challenges, the presence of dedicated practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources can significantly improve patient outcomes. Further investigation into physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this region.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and the accessibility of breast cancer care in ZIP code 16426 and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of data visualization. Consider using CartoChrome maps to visually represent the distribution of doctors, primary care facilities, and other relevant resources. CartoChrome maps can help you identify areas with limited access to care and highlight potential opportunities for improvement.