17066, Mount Union, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17066, Mount Union, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.19 percent of the residents in 17066 has some form of health insurance. 51.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.88 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 17066 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,207 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17066. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,009 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 55 health care providers accessible to residents in 17066, Mount Union, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment require a multifaceted approach, encompassing not only medical expertise but also accessibility, patient support, and the integration of modern technologies. Evaluating healthcare resources in a specific geographic area like ZIP code 17066 and assessing primary care availability in Mount Union demands a detailed analysis. This analysis aims to provide a 'Breast Cancer Score' ranking, considering various factors crucial for patients navigating this challenging journey.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric in assessing healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio of patients per physician can indicate potential challenges in scheduling appointments, receiving timely care, and establishing a strong patient-physician relationship. In ZIP code 17066, an investigation into the number of primary care physicians, oncologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer, relative to the population size, is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state medical boards can provide insights into these ratios. A low ratio, indicating a relative scarcity of specialists, would negatively impact the 'Breast Cancer Score'. Conversely, a favorable ratio, suggesting readily available medical professionals, would contribute positively.

The presence of standout practices within the ZIP code significantly influences the quality of care. Identifying practices with a proven track record of excellent patient outcomes, adherence to the latest treatment guidelines, and a patient-centered approach is vital. This requires examining factors such as accreditation by reputable organizations (e.g., the American College of Surgeons), patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical expertise, and chemotherapy/radiation therapy. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and offer access to innovative treatments would receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption has revolutionized healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas or regions with limited access to specialists. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide ongoing support through telehealth platforms can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of travel. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among healthcare providers in ZIP code 17066 is crucial. Practices that offer telehealth services for initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring would be favorably ranked. The availability of secure and user-friendly telehealth platforms, along with the ability to integrate patient data seamlessly, would further enhance the score.

Mental health resources play a critical role in supporting patients undergoing breast cancer treatment. The emotional and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis can be immense, and access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential for overall well-being. Evaluating the availability of these resources in ZIP code 17066 involves assessing the presence of psychologists, psychiatrists, licensed clinical social workers, and support groups specializing in cancer care. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or collaborate with mental health professionals would receive a higher score. The availability of resources such as support groups, educational materials, and access to mental health professionals is crucial.

Primary care availability in Mount Union, a neighboring community, is also relevant. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, early detection, and referrals to specialists. Assessing the number of primary care physicians in Mount Union, their appointment availability, and their willingness to refer patients to specialists in ZIP code 17066 is essential. A strong primary care infrastructure in Mount Union would indirectly contribute to a higher 'Breast Cancer Score' for the overall region by ensuring timely access to initial screenings and referrals.

Specific examples of factors that will impact the score include the availability of advanced imaging technologies such as 3D mammography and MRI, which can improve the accuracy of diagnosis. The presence of a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and radiologists, is another critical factor. The ability to offer genetic testing and counseling for patients at high risk for breast cancer is also important. Furthermore, the availability of supportive services, such as physical therapy, nutritional counseling, and survivorship programs, can enhance the patient experience and improve long-term outcomes.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' ranking would be a composite score, incorporating all these factors, weighted according to their relative importance. The weighting system would reflect the significance of each factor in influencing patient outcomes and the overall quality of care. For instance, physician-to-patient ratios and the presence of standout practices might carry a higher weight than the availability of telemedicine services, although all factors are important. The final score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in the target area.

This analysis, while comprehensive, relies on publicly available data and may not fully capture the nuances of each practice. It is important to note that the 'Breast Cancer Score' is not a definitive ranking but rather an indicator of the relative strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare resources available in the specified geographic area. It is designed to provide information to patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, empowering them to make informed decisions and improve the quality of breast cancer care.

To visualize and analyze this data, and to gain further insights into the healthcare landscape of ZIP code 17066 and Mount Union, explore the power of geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations of healthcare data, enabling you to identify patterns, trends, and disparities in access to care. Visit their website today to learn more and start exploring the possibilities.