17063, Milroy, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17063, Milroy, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.64 percent of the residents in 17063 has some form of health insurance. 29.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.62 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 17063 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 679 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17063. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 566 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,118 health care providers accessible to residents in 17063, Milroy, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17063 & Milroy Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 17063 (likely encompassing the Lewistown, PA area) and assesses the availability of primary care resources in Milroy, PA, a smaller community nearby. The focus is on factors crucial to early detection, treatment, and supportive care, culminating in a notional "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem in these locales. This score isn't a single number but a composite assessment based on various metrics.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are the first point of contact for patients, responsible for preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Milroy, evaluating primary care availability requires a granular approach. The physician-to-patient ratio is critical. Determining the number of practicing PCPs relative to the population of Milroy provides a baseline understanding of access. Are there enough PCPs to serve the community adequately? Are appointments readily available, or are patients facing long wait times? This directly impacts the timeliness of screenings and diagnoses. A low physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with readily available appointments, would positively influence the Breast Cancer Score. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs or significant appointment delays would negatively impact the score, potentially forcing residents to seek care outside the immediate area, increasing travel time and potentially delaying critical care.

Within ZIP Code 17063, the analysis must extend beyond simple physician counts. The quality of care is paramount. Are the PCPs in the area well-versed in breast cancer screening guidelines, including mammograms and clinical breast exams? Do they proactively discuss risk factors with their patients and offer personalized recommendations? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate communication and coordination between different healthcare providers is also crucial. EHRs streamline the referral process, ensuring that patients receive timely access to specialists if needed. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the degree to which these factors are integrated into the primary care landscape.

Beyond PCPs, the presence of specialized breast cancer care providers within or easily accessible from ZIP Code 17063 is critical. This includes radiologists specializing in mammography, breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to the population is a key indicator. The Breast Cancer Score considers the travel time required to reach these specialists. Shorter travel times contribute positively to the score, as they facilitate quicker access to diagnostic procedures and treatment. The availability of a comprehensive cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to care, including support services, would significantly enhance the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to expand access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. The availability of telehealth consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience for patients. The degree to which local healthcare providers have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will be a key component of the assessment.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is vital for patients. The Breast Cancer Score considers the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, specializing in oncology-related issues. Are there support groups, individual therapy options, and psychiatric services available within the community or nearby? The integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan, either through on-site services or referrals, significantly enhances the score. A well-coordinated system that addresses both the physical and emotional needs of patients is essential for optimal outcomes.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 17063 would be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes practices that: actively promote preventative screenings; employ advanced imaging technologies; offer a multidisciplinary team approach; provide robust patient education and support services; and actively utilize telemedicine. These practices would contribute significantly to a higher Breast Cancer Score for the area. Identifying these standout practices requires detailed research, including reviewing patient testimonials, assessing practice websites, and potentially interviewing healthcare professionals.

In Milroy, the analysis should also consider the presence of community resources that support breast cancer patients. This includes organizations offering financial assistance, transportation services, and support groups. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the availability and accessibility of these resources. The collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations is a key indicator of a strong support system.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 17063 and the surrounding areas is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem. It considers a range of factors, from physician-to-patient ratios and specialist availability to telemedicine adoption and mental health resources. This analysis highlights the importance of a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to breast cancer care.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in these areas, including detailed mapping of healthcare providers, access to care, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that can help you identify areas of strength and weakness in healthcare access, enabling informed decision-making for patients, providers, and policymakers.