17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.97 percent of the residents in 17048 has some form of health insurance. 34.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.28 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 17048 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 988 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17048. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 650 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,112 health care providers accessible to residents in 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lykens, PA (ZIP Code 17048)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care resources within the Lykens, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17048) area, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for residents seeking information about local healthcare options.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection and consistent follow-up are critical. Within Lykens and the surrounding areas, primary care availability is a crucial factor. Assessing this involves considering the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing in the region and the population they serve. This data provides a preliminary insight into the physician-to-patient ratio, a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative screenings and early diagnosis.

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires detailed data analysis. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau must be cross-referenced with physician directories and insurance provider networks. This process can reveal the actual number of practicing PCPs within a defined radius of Lykens and the corresponding population served. The resulting ratio provides a benchmark against national averages, allowing for a comparative assessment of access.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices is also important. Are the practices geographically dispersed, or are they concentrated in specific areas? This distribution impacts the ease of access for residents, particularly those in rural or underserved locations. Analyzing the location of practices relative to population density and transportation infrastructure provides a more nuanced understanding of accessibility.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered (including preventative screenings like mammograms), and the integration of technology. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and have a strong track record of positive patient outcomes deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Lykens. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of preventative care. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption among local primary care practices involves identifying those that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health support is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological impact of a diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Assessing the availability of mental health resources in the Lykens area involves identifying local therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is particularly beneficial, as it facilitates early identification and intervention. The presence of partnerships between primary care providers and mental health professionals indicates a commitment to holistic patient care.

The quality of breast cancer care is not solely dependent on the availability of primary care. Access to specialized care, such as oncologists and surgeons, is also essential. While this analysis focuses on the primary care landscape, it is important to acknowledge the need for seamless referrals and coordination of care between primary care providers and specialists.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for Lykens, PA (17048) is a composite measure. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the distribution of practices, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. A higher score indicates better access, greater convenience, and a more comprehensive approach to patient care.

To improve the ‘Breast Cancer Score’, several actions can be taken. Increasing the number of PCPs in the area is a primary goal. This can be achieved through recruitment initiatives, incentives for physicians to practice in rural areas, and the expansion of existing practices. Promoting telemedicine adoption among local practices is also crucial. This involves providing technical support, training, and financial incentives.

Additionally, strengthening partnerships between primary care providers and mental health professionals is essential. This can be facilitated through collaborative care models, shared training programs, and integrated electronic health records. Finally, community outreach and education are critical. Raising awareness about breast cancer screening, promoting early detection, and connecting patients with available resources can significantly improve outcomes.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Lykens, PA, is vital for residents. This analysis provides a starting point for navigating the system and making informed decisions about care. Further research and ongoing monitoring are necessary to track progress and ensure that residents have access to the best possible breast cancer care.

This analysis, while providing valuable insights, is limited by the availability of publicly accessible data. A more comprehensive assessment would require access to proprietary data from insurance providers, healthcare systems, and physician practices. However, the information presented here offers a solid foundation for understanding the current state of breast cancer care resources in the Lykens area.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lykens, PA, and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations that can help you navigate the healthcare system and make informed decisions about your care.