16641, Gallitzin, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16641, Gallitzin, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.32 percent of the residents in 16641 has some form of health insurance. 43.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.69 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 16641 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 654 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16641. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 412 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,437 health care providers accessible to residents in 16641, Gallitzin, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Gallitzin, PA (ZIP Code 16641)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Gallitzin, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16641) necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive ‘Breast Cancer Score’ assessment. This score, though not a numerical ranking, provides a qualitative understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in addressing breast cancer concerns.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Gallitzin, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial factor. A robust primary care network facilitates early detection through regular screenings, such as mammograms, and provides a crucial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or having concerns. Scarcity of primary care physicians can translate into delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer outcomes. The geographic distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code, and their willingness to accept new patients, are vital considerations.

Physician-to-patient ratios offer insight into the workload and accessibility of healthcare providers. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to care, allowing for more thorough examinations and increased opportunities for patient education. The ideal physician-to-patient ratio for a specific area is subject to debate, but the trend is clear: a higher ratio creates challenges.

Identifying standout practices in Gallitzin is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, employing advanced screening techniques, offering comprehensive support services, and actively participating in community outreach programs. Factors to consider include the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment (e.g., mammography machines), and the practice’s commitment to patient education and support groups. Practices that actively participate in breast cancer research or clinical trials also indicate a higher level of commitment to the field.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Gallitzin. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and consultations without the need for extensive travel. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations with oncologists, and access to mental health support. The availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered and the ease of access, significantly impacts the overall quality of care.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant emotional and psychological impact on patients. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is critical. This includes the availability of support groups, individual therapy, and access to psychiatric services if needed. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

Evaluating the ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for Gallitzin, PA (16641) involves synthesizing all these factors. The score is not a rigid metric but a qualitative assessment based on the strengths and weaknesses identified. A high score would indicate: readily available primary care physicians, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices with advanced screening and support services, widespread adoption of telemedicine, and robust mental health resources. A lower score would indicate the opposite.

The analysis suggests a need for further investigation into the specifics of the healthcare landscape in Gallitzin. The availability of primary care physicians and the physician-to-patient ratio are key areas for immediate assessment. Identifying and evaluating any standout practices, with a focus on their patient care, technology, and community involvement, is crucial. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources is also essential.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the impact of healthcare disparities. Are there any populations within Gallitzin that face greater barriers to accessing care? This could include factors such as socioeconomic status, transportation limitations, or language barriers. Addressing these disparities is critical to ensuring equitable access to breast cancer care for all residents.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for Gallitzin, PA (16641) is a dynamic assessment. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and approaches to patient care emerging regularly. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary to ensure that residents of Gallitzin have access to the best possible breast cancer care.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape of Gallitzin, including the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and the distribution of demographic data, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, enabling a deeper understanding of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.