17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.22 percent of the residents in 17049 has some form of health insurance. 27.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.70 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 17049 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,061 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 8 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17049. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 574 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,480 health care providers accessible to residents in 17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17049 & Primary Care in Mc Alisterville

This analysis delves into the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 17049 (likely encompassing the Mc Alisterville area) and assesses the availability of primary care services, a critical component of early detection and ongoing support. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all factors influencing a "Breast Cancer Score" for this region.

The foundation of a strong breast cancer score rests on accessible primary care. In Mc Alisterville, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the likelihood of women receiving regular screenings, including mammograms and clinical breast exams. A low PCP-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors serving a larger population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening rates, and potentially, later-stage diagnoses. Conversely, a robust primary care network, readily accessible to the community, significantly improves the overall breast cancer score.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios requires data collection. Determining the precise number of PCPs actively practicing within the 17049 ZIP code and comparing it to the female population is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can provide this information. However, this data often requires interpretation and analysis to account for factors like physician specialization (e.g., family medicine vs. internal medicine) and patient demographics. Furthermore, travel time to access primary care facilities must be considered, particularly in a rural setting like Mc Alisterville, as geographical barriers can hinder access.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Standout practices are those that proactively promote breast cancer screening, offer patient education materials, and emphasize preventative care. These practices typically have well-established systems for reminding patients of upcoming screenings, utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient history and risk factors, and foster a strong doctor-patient relationship built on trust and open communication. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate adherence to evidence-based guidelines further enhance their contribution to the breast cancer score.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in improving the breast cancer score. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can enhance access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. For instance, virtual follow-up appointments after a mammogram or breast cancer treatment can reduce travel burdens and improve patient adherence to care plans. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires reliable internet access, patient familiarity with technology, and appropriate reimbursement models. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in the 17049 area should be evaluated, considering both the availability of virtual services and the patient population's access to the necessary technology.

Mental health resources play a vital role in the breast cancer journey. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a woman's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for providing support and facilitating coping mechanisms. Assessing the breast cancer score requires evaluating the presence of mental health services within the primary care practices, as well as the availability of specialized oncology support groups and mental health providers in the community. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is essential for providing comprehensive care.

The breast cancer score is also influenced by the presence of specialized oncology services. While Mc Alisterville may not have its own oncology center, the proximity to comprehensive cancer care facilities in neighboring towns or cities is a critical factor. Easy access to oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapists, and other specialists is essential for providing timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, financial counselors, and survivorship programs, also contributes to the overall score.

Data collection is the key to accurate analysis. Gathering information on the number of PCPs, the quality of their practices, their telemedicine capabilities, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity to specialized oncology services requires a multi-faceted approach. This may involve reviewing publicly available data, conducting surveys of local healthcare providers, and analyzing patient feedback. Furthermore, analyzing the rates of breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes within the 17049 area can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the existing healthcare system.

The breast cancer score is not a static number; it evolves based on the healthcare infrastructure. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are crucial for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that women in Mc Alisterville and surrounding areas have access to the best possible breast cancer care. This includes advocating for policies that support primary care access, promoting telemedicine adoption, and increasing the availability of mental health resources.

In conclusion, the breast cancer score for the 17049 ZIP code and the primary care landscape in Mc Alisterville is a complex assessment. It is determined by several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health and specialized oncology services. Analyzing all these factors provides a comprehensive understanding of the care available.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and breast cancer incidence rates, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the breast cancer care landscape and identifying areas where resources are needed most. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to unlock insights and improve breast cancer care in your community.