17059, Mifflintown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17059, Mifflintown, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.54 percent of the residents in 17059 has some form of health insurance. 35.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.77 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 17059 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,722 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17059. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,482 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,376 health care providers accessible to residents in 17059, Mifflintown, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer care accessibility and quality are paramount concerns, and this analysis attempts to provide a snapshot of the landscape within ZIP Code 17059 (Mifflintown, Pennsylvania) and the surrounding primary care resources in Mifflintown itself. This analysis focuses on factors relevant to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and supportive care, aiming to paint a picture of the healthcare environment for individuals navigating this challenging disease.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Mifflintown, and the broader ZIP Code 17059, presents a critical starting point. Sparse populations often struggle with physician shortages, potentially hindering timely access to care. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and publicly available physician directories would be essential to determine the exact ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly those specializing in oncology, radiology, and surgery. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. The availability of specialized breast cancer care within the immediate area is also important. Does the area have dedicated breast imaging centers, surgical oncologists, and medical oncologists? Proximity to comprehensive cancer centers, even if outside the immediate ZIP code, is a significant factor.

Standout practices within the area would be identified through a multi-faceted approach. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including wait times, communication styles, and overall satisfaction. Professional accreditations, such as those from the American College of Radiology for breast imaging facilities, would be another indicator of quality. Furthermore, the adoption of best practices, such as adherence to the latest screening guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, would be a key differentiator. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to breast cancer treatment and prevention would also be considered highly.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where travel can be a barrier to care. The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care, oncology follow-up appointments, and mental health services can significantly improve access. Practices that offer remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, or those who utilize digital platforms for patient education and communication, would be considered to be more patient-centric. This is particularly relevant for patients managing side effects from treatment or requiring regular check-ins.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, but critical, component of breast cancer care. The emotional toll of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship is significant. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients, is essential. Does the area have support groups, either in-person or virtual, specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors? Are there programs that offer psychological support for patients and their families? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a sign of a comprehensive and patient-centered approach.

Primary care availability in Mifflintown plays a crucial role in breast cancer prevention and early detection. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients and can play a vital role in recommending screening mammograms and educating patients about their risk factors. The accessibility of PCPs, including their hours of operation, ability to accept new patients, and insurance coverage, directly impacts the ability of individuals to receive timely care. The presence of nurse navigators or patient advocates within primary care practices who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system is also a significant advantage.

Assessing the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for this area would involve a complex weighting system. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the quality of imaging services, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of primary care would all be considered. Each factor would be assigned a score based on its importance and the data available. The final score would reflect the overall accessibility and quality of breast cancer care within the specified geographic area.

This analysis is a snapshot, and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Data accuracy and currency are paramount. Ongoing monitoring and updates are essential to provide the most relevant information. The availability of comprehensive data from reliable sources is critical for a complete and accurate assessment. This analysis is designed to provide a framework for understanding the breast cancer care environment in ZIP Code 17059 and the surrounding area.

For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic locations, and the availability of specialized services, consider exploring the power of interactive mapping. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of resources and areas where access may be limited. This visual approach can be invaluable for patients, healthcare providers, and community planners.