16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.62 percent of the residents in 16748 has some form of health insurance. 46.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.27 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 16748 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 579 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16748. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 592 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 161 health care providers accessible to residents in 16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Shinglehouse, PA (ZIP Code 16748)

Analyzing breast cancer care within Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16748) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not just the presence of medical professionals, but also the accessibility, quality, and supportive resources available to patients. This analysis will provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the landscape of care within the specified geographic area.

The foundation of any breast cancer care system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors serve as the initial point of contact, conducting screenings, ordering diagnostic tests, and providing referrals to specialists. In Shinglehouse, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and consistent care. Researching the current PCP-to-patient ratio within Shinglehouse is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide valuable insights. A high ratio, meaning a larger number of patients per physician, could signal a bottleneck in the system, potentially delaying early detection and treatment.

Beyond raw numbers, the geographical distribution of PCPs within Shinglehouse is also crucial. Are the existing practices centrally located, or are patients required to travel significant distances for appointments? Transportation barriers, particularly for elderly or low-income individuals, can significantly impact access to care. Furthermore, the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices needs to be assessed. Limited insurance coverage can create financial barriers, deterring patients from seeking necessary medical attention.

Once a patient receives a referral, the next step involves specialized care. The availability of oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists is essential for comprehensive breast cancer treatment. Examining the proximity of these specialists to Shinglehouse is crucial. Are patients required to travel to larger cities like Bradford or Olean for these services? Travel time and distance can influence treatment decisions and patient well-being. The presence of a local hospital or clinic offering these specialized services would significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score."

The quality of care is another vital consideration. This involves evaluating the experience and expertise of the medical professionals, as well as the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Researching the credentials and affiliations of local specialists is important. Are they board-certified? Do they belong to reputable medical organizations? Are they affiliated with well-regarded hospitals or cancer centers? The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, is also a key factor. Access to these technologies is crucial for early detection and accurate diagnosis.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Shinglehouse. The ability to consult with specialists remotely can improve access to care and reduce travel burdens. Assessing the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education is essential. Practices actively embracing telemedicine will likely receive a higher score.

Beyond medical treatment, the availability of mental health resources is critical for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups can significantly improve patient well-being and treatment outcomes. Investigating the presence of mental health professionals and support groups within Shinglehouse or nearby communities is essential. Does the local hospital offer counseling services? Are there any local chapters of organizations like the American Cancer Society or the Breast Cancer Research Foundation?

Standout practices in Shinglehouse would be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care. These practices would likely have a strong PCP-to-patient ratio, easy access to specialists, advanced diagnostic technologies, telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. They would also prioritize patient education and provide a supportive environment for patients navigating the challenges of breast cancer. Identifying these practices requires in-depth research and potentially, patient feedback.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Shinglehouse, PA, is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Factors such as the recruitment of new physicians, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of support services can all influence the score over time. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that patients in Shinglehouse have access to the best possible care.

Analyzing the availability of resources for breast cancer patients is not simply about counting doctors and specialists. It is about understanding the entire ecosystem of care, from initial screening to long-term support. The ideal scenario involves a well-coordinated network of healthcare providers, a supportive community, and a commitment to patient-centered care. The higher the level of integration and support, the better the outcomes for patients.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Shinglehouse, PA, is contingent upon a thorough examination of the availability, accessibility, quality, and support resources available to patients. This analysis requires a deep dive into physician-to-patient ratios, the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The identification of standout practices that prioritize patient-centered care is also essential.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Shinglehouse and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data and identify potential gaps in care, ultimately improving the quality of life for breast cancer patients.