17025, Enola, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17025, Enola, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.95 percent of the residents in 17025 has some form of health insurance. 27.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.07 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 17025 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,539 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 93 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17025. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,544 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,260 health care providers accessible to residents in 17025, Enola, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Enola, PA (ZIP Code 17025)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care resources within the Enola, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17025) area. We will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the physician-to-patient ratio, and the presence of specialized services, including telemedicine and mental health support, to formulate a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the community's preparedness to address this critical health concern.

Enola, a suburban community in Cumberland County, experiences the healthcare landscape typical of its region. Access to quality healthcare is a significant determinant of positive outcomes in breast cancer treatment and survival. Our assessment prioritizes factors that directly impact patient access, early detection, and comprehensive care.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer management is early detection and prompt referral. This begins with accessible primary care. Primary care physicians play a vital role in screening, education, and the initial diagnosis process. They are the first point of contact for many patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care.

The availability of PCPs in Enola, and the surrounding area, is a crucial metric. The physician-to-patient ratio provides insight into the workload of existing providers. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Researching this ratio specifically for the 17025 ZIP code, or even a broader radius incorporating surrounding communities, is essential. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the US Department of Health & Human Services, and local healthcare networks should be consulted.

Beyond the sheer number of PCPs, the quality and breadth of services offered are paramount. Does the PCP offer in-house mammography screening, or do they have established referral pathways to trusted radiology centers? Are they knowledgeable about the latest breast cancer screening guidelines and treatment options? The answers to these questions are vital in assessing the overall preparedness of the community.

Examining the practices themselves offers further insight. Are there any standout practices in the Enola area? This includes those known for patient-centered care, advanced diagnostic capabilities, or a strong focus on preventative medicine. This requires researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and community feedback. Identifying practices that have demonstrated a commitment to breast cancer awareness and early detection can significantly boost the overall score.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs and specialists in Enola is a significant factor. Does the community have access to virtual consultations for breast cancer screenings, follow-up appointments, or consultations with oncologists and surgeons? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and increase access to specialized care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The mental and emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Comprehensive care must include readily available mental health resources. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Enola area who specialize in oncology or offer support groups for breast cancer patients? Are these resources accessible, affordable, and integrated into the overall care plan? This support is crucial for navigating the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Furthermore, the presence of support groups, patient navigators, and educational programs significantly contributes to a community's preparedness. Patient navigators can guide patients through the complex healthcare system, helping them understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and available resources. Support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to share experiences, connect with others facing similar challenges, and receive emotional support. Educational programs empower patients to make informed decisions about their health.

The "Breast Cancer Score" should reflect the availability and accessibility of these resources. It is a composite score that considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health support, and the presence of support groups and educational programs. Each component is assigned a weight based on its relative importance in the overall care pathway.

For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score. The presence of telemedicine options would positively influence it. The availability of specialized mental health services would further enhance the score. Practices with a proven track record of breast cancer awareness and patient-centered care would also contribute positively.

The final score would be a numerical representation of the community's preparedness to address breast cancer. This score is not absolute; it is a relative measure that can be compared to other communities. It can also be used to identify areas for improvement and to guide resource allocation.

The analysis should also consider the demographic characteristics of the Enola population. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation can influence healthcare outcomes. Tailoring services to meet the specific needs of the community is crucial.

Data sources for this analysis include the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the US Department of Health & Human Services, local hospital networks (such as UPMC or Penn State Health), physician directories, insurance provider websites, and patient reviews.

This analysis, based on the available data, provides a foundation for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in Enola, PA. It highlights the importance of accessible primary care, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of support groups.

**Actionable Insights:**

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape in Enola, and to identify potential areas for improvement, we encourage you to utilize **CartoChrome maps**. CartoChrome maps can visually represent physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, offering a powerful tool for understanding healthcare access and resource distribution. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome to gain a deeper understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in your community.