17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.18 percent of the residents in 17094 has some form of health insurance. 39.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.37 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 17094 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 651 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17094. 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 1,550 health care providers accessible to residents in 17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on breast cancer care within ZIP Code 17094, encompassing Thompsontown, Pennsylvania, and assesses the availability of primary care physicians, a critical component of early detection and ongoing support. This evaluation considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for the region.

Thompsontown, a small rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. While specific, up-to-the-minute figures are dynamic and require constant updating, data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, coupled with information from the U.S. Census Bureau, can provide an estimated ratio. This ratio is crucial for understanding the overall healthcare landscape. A higher ratio of primary care physicians, in particular, is linked to better health outcomes, including earlier breast cancer detection.

The presence of standout medical practices within and around Thompsontown significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." These practices are evaluated based on several criteria. First, the availability of board-certified primary care physicians is paramount. Second, the utilization of state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, such as digital mammography and potentially 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is a critical factor. Third, the practice's adherence to established breast cancer screening guidelines, as recommended by the American Cancer Society or the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, is assessed. Furthermore, practices that offer patient navigation services, which help patients navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, receive high marks.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital element. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely using technology, has the potential to increase access to care, particularly in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support can improve patient outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for breast cancer-related concerns, contribute positively to the "Breast Cancer Score." The availability of telehealth services can mitigate geographical barriers and improve access to specialists.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, but essential, component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be a profoundly stressful experience, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community is therefore crucial. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, also contributes to a positive "Breast Cancer Score." Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans, offering referrals to counselors or providing access to support groups, are highly valued.

Specific examples of practices within or near 17094 are assessed based on their publicly available information, including their websites, patient reviews, and any published reports. These practices are evaluated based on the criteria mentioned above. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the collective performance of these practices. The higher the number of well-equipped, guideline-adhering practices with telemedicine capabilities and mental health support, the higher the overall score.

The evaluation also considers the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the proximity of hospitals and specialized cancer centers. The presence of a nearby facility equipped to handle complex breast cancer cases, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is a significant positive factor. The availability of transportation services for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments is also considered.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Thompsontown, Pennsylvania, is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are essential to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the score. Factors such as physician turnover, the adoption of new technologies, and changes in healthcare policies can all influence the score.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" is a composite measure, taking into account all the factors discussed above. It provides a snapshot of the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Thompsontown. The score is intended to be a helpful resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It can inform decisions about healthcare utilization, resource allocation, and efforts to improve breast cancer outcomes in the community.

The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all interconnected. A strong primary care base, coupled with access to specialized care and supportive services, is critical for providing comprehensive breast cancer care. The "Breast Cancer Score" reflects this interconnectedness, providing a holistic assessment of the healthcare landscape.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Thompsontown, including physician locations, practice details, and proximity to specialized services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides valuable insights into healthcare access and availability, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health.