16441, Waterford, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16441, Waterford, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.12 percent of the residents in 16441 has some form of health insurance. 34.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.96 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 16441 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16441. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,673 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 706 health care providers accessible to residents in 16441, Waterford, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Waterford, PA (ZIP Code 16441)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the Waterford, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16441) area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. This information is crucial for residents seeking comprehensive breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the local healthcare landscape to empower informed decision-making.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Early detection is paramount, and PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients. In Waterford, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio reveals the potential strain on the existing healthcare system. A higher ratio (fewer doctors per patient) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. This analysis will strive to quantify this ratio using publicly available data, such as state licensing boards and insurance provider directories.

Determining the specific number of PCPs practicing within the 16441 ZIP code is the initial step. This involves cross-referencing various databases to ensure accuracy. The next step is to estimate the population of Waterford. Using census data, we can then calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio provides a baseline understanding of PCP accessibility. Further investigation will delve into the specific practices within Waterford, identifying their patient load, appointment availability, and the range of services they offer.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care offered by these PCPs is crucial. Are they actively promoting breast cancer screenings? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, such as radiologists and oncologists? The analysis will evaluate the practices' commitment to preventative care, including mammogram recommendations and patient education. This assessment will involve examining practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially contacting the practices directly to inquire about their screening protocols.

Identifying standout practices is a key objective. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. Criteria for evaluation may include: the implementation of patient-centered care models, such as extended appointment times or after-hours availability; the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient data and facilitate communication; and the availability of on-site services, such as phlebotomy or basic imaging. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as health fairs or educational seminars, will also be recognized.

Telemedicine is transforming healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Waterford is an important factor in this analysis. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, especially for patients who may have difficulty traveling to larger cities for appointments. Assessing the availability of telehealth services within the 16441 ZIP code involves identifying practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. The analysis will consider the types of telehealth services offered, the platforms used, and the ease of access for patients.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Mental health support is therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. This analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the Waterford area. This includes identifying therapists, counselors, and support groups that specialize in oncology-related issues. The analysis will also consider the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals.

The analysis will also consider the presence of any local hospitals or clinics that offer specialized breast cancer services, such as diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and radiation therapy. This includes evaluating the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of breast cancer. The analysis will also assess the expertise of the medical staff, including the number of board-certified oncologists and radiologists practicing in the area.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and financial assistance programs, will also be considered. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, providing support and guidance throughout their treatment journey. Financial assistance programs can help patients with the cost of treatment, including medications, medical bills, and transportation. The analysis will identify the availability of these resources within the Waterford area.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for Waterford, PA (16441) will be a composite score, reflecting the various factors discussed above. The score will provide a snapshot of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in terms of breast cancer care. This score is not intended to be a definitive ranking, but rather a tool to inform residents about the healthcare landscape and to highlight areas where improvements are needed.

This analysis will be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The availability of PCPs, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are constantly evolving. This ongoing monitoring will ensure that the information provided remains current and relevant. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Waterford, PA (16441) and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing you to identify healthcare providers, visualize physician-to-patient ratios, and explore the availability of specialized services.