16647, Hesston, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16647, Hesston, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.44 percent of the residents in 16647 has some form of health insurance. 34.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.46 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 16647 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 226 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16647. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 153 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,298 health care providers accessible to residents in 16647, Hesston, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Hesston, PA (ZIP Code 16647)

Hesston, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Huntingdon County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer care. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for physicians practicing within the 16647 ZIP code and evaluate the availability of primary care services, a critical factor in early detection and treatment. The score is a composite evaluation, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all viewed through the lens of breast cancer care.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system is robust primary care. In Hesston, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic evaluations. Data regarding this ratio within the 16647 ZIP code must be meticulously examined. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can provide insights into the population size and the number of practicing PCPs. This data, however, needs to be supplemented with information on physician specialization. The presence of PCPs with a focus on women's health, or those with specific training in breast cancer screening and awareness, would significantly enhance the score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are PCPs actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, according to current guidelines? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, including radiologists and oncologists, for timely diagnosis and treatment? The existence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between primary care and specialists is also a critical consideration. EHRs can improve the coordination of care, reduce the risk of errors, and ensure that patients receive the most appropriate and up-to-date treatment.

Identifying "standout practices" is another essential element of the analysis. This involves recognizing medical practices within the 16647 ZIP code that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This could include practices with a dedicated focus on women's health, those that participate in clinical trials, or those that have implemented innovative approaches to patient care. Factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the availability of on-site mammography services, and the presence of a multidisciplinary team (including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses) would contribute to the evaluation of these practices. Publicly available data, patient reviews, and information from professional organizations can be used to identify and assess these standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Hesston. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel, and potentially improving the speed of diagnosis and treatment. The analysis should assess the extent to which physicians in the 16647 ZIP code are utilizing telemedicine for breast cancer care. This includes examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and support. The presence of robust broadband internet access within the community is also a crucial factor in determining the feasibility of telemedicine adoption.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The analysis should assess the availability of mental health services within the 16647 ZIP code, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The presence of mental health professionals who specialize in working with cancer patients would be particularly beneficial. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health providers is essential to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for physicians in the 16647 ZIP code will be a composite of these factors. It will reflect the availability of primary care, the quality of care provided, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score can be used to identify areas for improvement and to highlight the strengths of the healthcare system in Hesston. It's important to note that this score is a snapshot in time and can change as healthcare practices evolve.

To enhance this analysis and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hesston, consider utilizing advanced mapping and data visualization tools. CartoChrome Maps offers powerful capabilities for visualizing healthcare data, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of physician distribution, access to care, and the availability of resources. Using CartoChrome Maps, one can overlay data points, such as the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, onto a geographic map of the 16647 ZIP code. This visual representation can reveal patterns and trends that might not be apparent from raw data alone. It can also identify areas with limited access to care, allowing for targeted interventions to improve healthcare outcomes.

By combining detailed data analysis with the visual capabilities of CartoChrome Maps, a more accurate and actionable "Breast Cancer Score" assessment can be developed for Hesston, PA. This will ultimately benefit the community by providing valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of its healthcare system, leading to improved access to care and better outcomes for patients.