17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.02 percent of the residents in 17013 has some form of health insurance. 34.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.61 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 17013 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,791 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 46 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17013. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,290 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 15,774 health care providers accessible to residents in 17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Carlisle, PA (ZIP Code 17013)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care availability and quality within Carlisle, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17013), focusing on primary care physicians and their capacity to facilitate early detection and support for patients. The assessment considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through breast cancer.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon strong primary care. In Carlisle, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential delays in crucial screenings and referrals. Data on this ratio, sourced from state medical boards and publicly available demographic information, is essential to understanding the overall accessibility of care. Analyzing this data will reveal if Carlisle faces any shortages, potentially impacting early detection and treatment outcomes.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The analysis will identify standout practices within the 17013 ZIP code. This involves evaluating factors like the practice’s commitment to preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings, patient education, and the utilization of evidence-based guidelines. Practices that actively promote screening mammograms, provide comprehensive patient education materials, and maintain efficient referral pathways to specialists are considered high-performing. The analysis will consider patient reviews, accreditations, and participation in quality improvement programs to identify these exemplary practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in modern healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Its adoption within Carlisle's primary care practices is examined. Telemedicine offers advantages in terms of convenience, accessibility, and the ability to connect patients with specialists remotely. The analysis will investigate the extent to which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. Practices that effectively integrate telemedicine into their care models demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can potentially improve access to care for those facing mobility issues or geographical limitations.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment cannot be overstated. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a key component of this analysis. The assessment will investigate the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices or the ease of referral to external providers. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology and related issues. Practices that prioritize mental health support demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the importance of addressing the emotional well-being of those affected by breast cancer.

The analysis will also evaluate the availability of resources for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. This includes access to support groups, educational materials, and financial assistance programs. Local hospitals and cancer centers often offer these services, and their proximity and accessibility to patients within the 17013 ZIP code will be considered. The analysis will determine the level of collaboration between primary care practices and these support systems, ensuring a seamless transition for patients throughout their treatment journey.

The assessment will also examine the use of technology in patient care. This includes the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) and the use of patient portals for communication and information sharing. Practices with advanced EHR systems often facilitate better care coordination, allowing for efficient communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers. Patient portals provide convenient access to medical records, appointment scheduling, and secure messaging, empowering patients to actively participate in their own care.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of the population served by the primary care practices in Carlisle. This includes factors such as age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Understanding the demographic profile of the patient population is crucial for tailoring care to meet specific needs. Practices that demonstrate cultural sensitivity and provide services in multiple languages are considered more accessible and inclusive.

Furthermore, the analysis will assess the responsiveness of primary care practices to patient needs. This includes the ease of scheduling appointments, the availability of after-hours care, and the promptness of communication with patients. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and provide responsive care are more likely to foster trust and build strong relationships with their patients.

The analysis will also consider the insurance coverage accepted by primary care practices in Carlisle. This includes the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are more accessible to a diverse population.

Finally, the analysis will synthesize all these factors into a Breast Cancer Score for primary care in Carlisle (17013). This score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality and availability of breast cancer care in the area. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, with each factor assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, allowing patients to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care system in Carlisle.

The Breast Cancer Score will provide a valuable tool for patients seeking primary care in Carlisle. It will help them make informed decisions about their healthcare and identify practices that best meet their needs. It will also provide valuable insights for healthcare providers and policymakers, helping them identify areas for improvement and prioritize resources to enhance breast cancer care in the community.

For a visual representation of these findings, including practice locations, physician density, and access to resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a dynamic and intuitive way to visualize the data, allowing you to explore the landscape of breast cancer care in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, with unprecedented clarity.