16502, Erie, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16502, Erie, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.19 percent of the residents in 16502 has some form of health insurance. 55.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.63 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 16502 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,414 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16502. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,163 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 16502, Erie, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Erie, PA (ZIP Code 16502) and Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the availability of breast cancer care resources within ZIP Code 16502, Erie, Pennsylvania, and examines the broader primary care landscape to assess its impact on early detection and treatment. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors that influence patient access, quality of care, and overall outcomes. This score isn’t a single number but a qualitative evaluation, reflecting the complexities of healthcare delivery.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on strong primary care. In Erie, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses. This is because patients may face longer wait times for appointments, hindering timely screenings and referrals. The availability of primary care physicians within 16502, specifically, is crucial. Geographic proximity to primary care practices directly impacts a woman’s likelihood of receiving regular mammograms and clinical breast exams, vital for early detection. The analysis will consider the density of primary care practices within the ZIP code, their hours of operation, and whether they accept new patients.

Standout primary care practices in Erie are those that prioritize preventative care, including breast cancer screening. These practices typically have robust systems for reminding patients about mammograms and other relevant tests. They may also employ dedicated staff to coordinate care and navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. The analysis will identify practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives related to breast cancer screening and follow-up care. These practices may demonstrate higher rates of screening compliance and more efficient referral processes.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to consult with a primary care physician or specialist remotely can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which primary care practices in Erie offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to online patient portals. This assessment will include an evaluation of the technology infrastructure and the training provided to physicians and staff to ensure effective telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting and within the broader community. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer-related issues. The assessment will consider the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive support throughout their journey.

Specialist availability is another critical aspect. The presence of oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists within or near 16502 directly impacts the quality and timeliness of care. The analysis will assess the number of specialists practicing in the area, their areas of expertise, and their affiliations with hospitals and other healthcare facilities. The analysis will consider the availability of multidisciplinary care teams, which bring together various specialists to provide coordinated and comprehensive treatment plans.

The availability of diagnostic imaging facilities, particularly those offering mammography and other breast imaging modalities, is crucial. The analysis will evaluate the number of facilities in 16502 and surrounding areas, their accreditation status, and their hours of operation. The analysis will consider the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of small tumors. The assessment will also include an evaluation of patient satisfaction with the imaging process, including wait times, comfort, and the clarity of communication from radiologists.

The analysis will consider the presence of patient navigation programs. These programs assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, from scheduling appointments to understanding treatment options and accessing financial assistance. The analysis will identify practices and hospitals that offer patient navigation services, assess the training and experience of the navigators, and evaluate the impact of these programs on patient outcomes.

Financial considerations are also essential. The cost of breast cancer care can be substantial, and financial barriers can prevent patients from accessing necessary screenings and treatments. The analysis will consider the availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by hospitals, cancer organizations, and government agencies. The assessment will also consider the acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of payment plans for patients who may struggle to afford their care.

The overall “Breast Cancer Score” for 16502 will reflect the interplay of these factors. Areas with a high density of primary care physicians, robust telemedicine options, readily available mental health resources, and a network of specialists and imaging facilities will receive a higher score. Practices that prioritize preventative care, patient navigation, and financial assistance will also contribute to a higher score. Conversely, areas with limited access to primary care, a lack of telemedicine options, and a shortage of specialists and imaging facilities will receive a lower score. The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and lack of transportation, on access to care.

This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in Erie, PA. By considering these factors, we can better understand the strengths and weaknesses of the current system and identify areas for improvement. This information can be used to inform healthcare policy, guide resource allocation, and ultimately improve outcomes for women in the Erie community.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Erie, PA, including the geographic distribution of primary care practices, specialist locations, and imaging facilities, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and data-driven visualization of healthcare resources, allowing you to easily identify areas with high and low access to care.