The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16428, North East, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 96.81 percent of the residents in 16428 has some form of health insurance. 46.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.23 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 16428 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 3,131 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16428. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,331 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 459 health care providers accessible to residents in 16428, North East, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 16428, North East, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score | 53 |
---|---|
People Score | 27 |
Provider Score | 86 |
Hospital Score | 38 |
Travel Score | 46 |
16428 | North East | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The task of assessing breast cancer care availability within a specific ZIP code and surrounding area demands a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the 16428 ZIP code, encompassing North East, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding region. We'll examine the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem.
Evaluating the healthcare landscape begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a snapshot of the accessibility of medical professionals. National averages serve as a benchmark. A lower ratio generally indicates a greater likelihood of timely appointments and more personalized care. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 16428 and the broader North East area is essential. This information, ideally sourced from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar agencies, allows for a comparison against state and national standards. A shortage of primary care physicians can create bottlenecks, delaying crucial referrals to specialists, including oncologists and surgeons, which are vital for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
The presence of standout medical practices significantly impacts the quality of care. Identifying practices that specialize in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is crucial. This includes facilities offering mammography, biopsies, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. Researching the accreditations and certifications of these practices, such as those from the American College of Surgeons or the American College of Radiology, provides insight into the quality of care provided. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses, signifies a comprehensive approach to breast cancer treatment.
Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some aspects of cancer treatment can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within the primary care practices and specialist offices in the region is essential. This includes evaluating the platforms used, the types of services offered virtually, and the ease of access for patients. The adoption of telemedicine can help mitigate the challenges posed by geographical limitations and improve the overall patient experience.
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 and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Investigating the presence of these resources within the healthcare system in North East is paramount. This includes identifying mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. Assessing whether these services are integrated into the overall care plan, such as through referrals from primary care physicians or oncologists, is also important.
The availability of primary care physicians in North East is fundamental. Primary care physicians act as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screening services, and referrals to specialists. A robust primary care infrastructure is essential for early detection of breast cancer through regular screenings, such as mammograms. Evaluating the number of primary care physicians in the area, their accessibility, and their ability to provide comprehensive care is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of same-day appointments, extended hours, and after-hours care.
The specific medical practices within the 16428 ZIP code and the surrounding area require detailed investigation. Identifying the names and locations of these practices, their specialties, and the services they offer is essential. Researching the qualifications and experience of the physicians within these practices, including their training and board certifications, is also important. This information provides a clearer picture of the quality and expertise of the medical professionals available to patients.
The assessment of telemedicine adoption requires a practical approach. Contacting primary care practices and specialist offices to inquire about their telemedicine capabilities is a necessary step. This includes asking about the platforms they use, the types of services they offer virtually, and the process for scheduling and attending virtual appointments. The availability of telemedicine can significantly enhance access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas.
The evaluation of mental health resources demands a similar approach. Identifying mental health professionals and support groups in the area and assessing their experience with cancer patients is crucial. This involves contacting local hospitals, cancer centers, and support organizations to gather information about available resources. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a key indicator of comprehensive breast cancer care.
The overall assessment of breast cancer care availability in the 16428 ZIP code and the surrounding area should consider all these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the quality and accessibility of care. A comprehensive analysis will provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in North East and identify areas for improvement.
To visualize the healthcare landscape in North East and the surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice specializations, and the availability of various resources, including telemedicine services and mental health support. This visual approach can enhance understanding and facilitate informed decision-making. Visit CartoChrome to explore how mapping technology can help you navigate the healthcare landscape and access the care you need.
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