16546, Erie, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16546, Erie, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.60 percent of the residents in 16546 has some form of health insurance. 3.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 98.49 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 16546 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 327 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16546. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,027 health care providers accessible to residents in 16546, Erie, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Erie, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16546) & Primary Care Availability**

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Erie, Pennsylvania, and specifically focusing on the 16546 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, the quality of primary care, access to specialized breast cancer services, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score,' reflecting the overall support system available to patients.

The foundation of good breast cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. In Erie, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts early detection and ongoing management. A low physician-to-patient ratio can strain the system, leading to delayed appointments, less time for patient education, and potentially, missed opportunities for early detection. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating more readily available PCPs, generally translates to better outcomes. Within the 16546 ZIP code, the concentration of PCPs and their ability to manage patient loads is a crucial factor in determining the overall score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the PCP’s awareness of breast cancer risk factors, their commitment to recommending regular screenings (mammograms, clinical breast exams), and their ability to effectively communicate with patients about their concerns. Practices that proactively educate patients about breast health, offer convenient scheduling for screenings, and maintain strong referral networks with specialists will score higher. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication and data sharing between PCPs and specialists further enhances the quality of care.

Specialized breast cancer services are another critical component of the score. This includes access to board-certified oncologists, radiologists specializing in breast imaging, surgeons experienced in breast cancer procedures, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to the 16546 ZIP code is a significant factor. Practices offering comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), biopsy capabilities, and surgical options (lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstruction), will contribute positively to the score. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, where oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists collaborate on patient care, is a strong indicator of quality.

Telemedicine has rapidly transformed healthcare delivery, and its adoption within Erie’s breast cancer care landscape significantly impacts the score. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Practices that offer telemedicine options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations increase accessibility, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in more rural areas. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine with the practice’s EHR system are all important considerations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, but crucial, element of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and its treatment can have profound emotional and psychological impacts on patients. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients, is essential. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral networks with mental health providers, will receive a higher score. Support groups, educational programs, and resources for coping with anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges are also valuable.

Identifying standout practices within the 16546 ZIP code requires a nuanced approach. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in multiple areas will naturally score higher. This includes practices with a high physician-to-patient ratio, offering comprehensive services, actively embracing telemedicine, and prioritizing mental health support. Practices that receive positive patient reviews, demonstrate a commitment to patient education, and actively participate in clinical trials or research initiatives further distinguish themselves.

Assessing primary care availability in Erie as a whole, and its impact on the 16546 ZIP code, involves analyzing the distribution of PCPs across the city. Are there underserved areas where access to primary care is limited? The availability of transportation, public or private, to access these services is also important. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers can help mitigate disparities in access. The overall healthcare infrastructure of Erie, including the presence of hospitals, specialized cancer centers, and support organizations, directly impacts the availability and quality of breast cancer care.

In conclusion, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for the 16546 ZIP code and Erie, Pennsylvania, is a complex metric. It is determined by a combination of factors, including physician availability, primary care quality, access to specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Practices that excel in these areas, providing comprehensive, patient-centered care, will receive higher scores. The overall healthcare infrastructure of Erie, including the distribution of resources and the presence of support organizations, also plays a significant role.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points in Erie, Pennsylvania, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that can help you understand the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and other factors that impact breast cancer care.