17034, Highspire, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17034, Highspire, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.31 percent of the residents in 17034 has some form of health insurance. 43.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.96 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 17034 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 671 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 87 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17034. An estimate of 13 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 467 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,571 health care providers accessible to residents in 17034, Highspire, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Highspire, PA (ZIP Code 17034)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Highspire, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17034) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the broader healthcare ecosystem supporting patients. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, factoring in physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This comprehensive view will offer a clearer understanding of the support available for individuals navigating breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship within this specific community.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These physicians serve as the initial point of contact, providing preventative screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing support. Assessing primary care availability in Highspire is crucial. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and hinder timely access to specialized care. Data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and local hospital systems will be essential to determine the current ratio within the area. Furthermore, the presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety net providers is a critical factor, especially considering the socio-economic demographics of the area. These providers often offer crucial services to underserved populations.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialists, particularly oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is paramount. Proximity to cancer centers and hospitals with dedicated breast cancer programs significantly impacts the overall score. Analyzing the number of board-certified specialists within a reasonable radius of Highspire is essential. This includes evaluating the presence of facilities offering advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography and access to multidisciplinary care teams. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, offering comprehensive services from diagnosis to survivorship, would significantly elevate the score.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves evaluating patient satisfaction scores, survival rates, and the adoption of evidence-based treatment protocols. Reviewing patient testimonials, online reviews, and publicly available data on hospital performance metrics can provide valuable insights. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials, offer genetic counseling, and provide access to supportive services like physical therapy and nutritional counseling would be considered highly ranked. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer nurse navigator, assisting patients through the complexities of treatment, is another significant positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and access educational resources remotely can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients. Assessing the extent to which local practices and hospitals utilize telemedicine platforms, particularly for breast cancer-related services, is a key component of the score. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual support groups and online educational materials.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis is profound. Integrating mental health resources into the care pathway is crucial for patient well-being. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, who specialize in oncology care. This includes evaluating the availability of individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups specifically tailored to breast cancer patients and survivors. The integration of these services into the overall care plan significantly enhances the quality of care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Highspire, PA (17034) is not a static number but rather a complex assessment. It is influenced by the interplay of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized centers, the adoption of technology, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score indicates a robust and accessible system of care, while a lower score suggests areas for improvement.

Based on the available data, the score is likely to be moderate. The proximity to larger medical centers in Harrisburg and Hershey offers access to specialized care, but the availability of primary care and the integration of mental health resources within Highspire itself may be limited. The adoption of telemedicine and the presence of dedicated breast cancer support groups will also influence the score.

To improve the score, efforts should focus on increasing the number of PCPs, expanding access to mental health services, and promoting telemedicine adoption. Collaboration between local practices, hospitals, and community organizations is crucial to create a more comprehensive and patient-centered system of care.

For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Highspire and surrounding areas, including the distribution of physicians, access to specialized services, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a dynamic and insightful view of the healthcare ecosystem, allowing you to visualize and analyze the data in a user-friendly format. Discover the potential of CartoChrome maps to empower your understanding of healthcare accessibility and make informed decisions.