17099, Yeagertown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17099, Yeagertown, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.91 percent of the residents in 17099 has some form of health insurance. 53.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.48 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 17099 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 102 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17099. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 509 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 282 health care providers accessible to residents in 17099, Yeagertown, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below assesses breast cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP Code 17099 (Yeagertown, Pennsylvania) and the surrounding region. This is not a comprehensive medical review, but rather an overview based on publicly available data, physician directories, and industry reports. The goal is to provide a general assessment of the healthcare landscape, focusing on factors relevant to breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial starting point. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care, including breast cancer screenings. In Yeagertown, a rural area, access to PCPs can be a challenge. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. If the ratio is high, it may indicate a shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative screenings. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards should be consulted to determine these ratios within the specific ZIP code and surrounding counties.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative service delivery, and a commitment to community health. Identifying these practices requires a multi-faceted approach. Online reviews (while subjective) can provide insights into patient experiences, focusing on factors like communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the Joint Commission can also indicate a commitment to quality standards. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as free screening events or educational seminars, also warrant recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing geographical barriers and offering convenient options for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even certain types of therapy. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices and specialists in the region should be evaluated. This includes the availability of virtual visits, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve patient access and convenience, which is especially beneficial for those living in Yeagertown.

Mental health resources are a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the number of mental health providers in the area, their acceptance of insurance, and the wait times for appointments. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and cancer treatment centers is a sign of a patient-centered approach. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also play a vital role in providing emotional support and fostering a sense of community.

Specific practices in the 17099 area should be researched. This includes their affiliations with hospitals, their participation in clinical trials, and their use of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to care, is a significant advantage. These centers often bring together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide coordinated care.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialized services, such as mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy procedures. The proximity of these services to primary care practices is a factor. Access to these services is crucial for early detection and diagnosis. The quality of the equipment and the expertise of the radiologists are also important considerations.

Another key factor is the patient's access to financial assistance programs and resources. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients require financial support. The availability of these resources, such as grants, patient assistance programs, and insurance coverage, is a crucial factor. Practices that actively assist patients in navigating these resources demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being beyond medical care.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served by the practices in the area. This includes factors such as age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Understanding the demographics can help identify potential disparities in access to care and ensure that services are tailored to the needs of the community.

The assessment should consider the local hospital systems. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with a dedicated cancer center is a significant advantage. The hospital's reputation, its commitment to research, and its participation in clinical trials are all important factors. The hospital's proximity to primary care practices is also a factor.

Finally, the analysis should incorporate data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These organizations provide valuable data on cancer incidence rates, mortality rates, and screening rates. This data can be used to assess the overall health of the community and identify areas where improvements are needed.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care and primary care accessibility in Yeagertown (17099) requires a thorough examination of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized services. This analysis is a starting point for understanding the local healthcare landscape. For a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in the area, explore the interactive maps and data visualization tools offered by CartoChrome. These resources can provide a visual representation of healthcare access and availability, helping you make informed decisions about your health and well-being.