17109, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17109, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.76 percent of the residents in 17109 has some form of health insurance. 35.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.91 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 17109 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,117 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 45 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17109. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,050 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,699 health care providers accessible to residents in 17109, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 17109, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a “Breast Cancer Score” analysis, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and support for patients. The analysis will encompass physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care lies in early detection. This begins with regular screenings and prompt referral to specialists. The availability and accessibility of PCPs within a community are therefore paramount. ZIP code 17109, encompassing a significant portion of Harrisburg, needs to be assessed for its capacity to provide this essential foundation.

Physician-to-patient ratios provide a critical metric. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Researching the specific PCP-to-patient ratio within 17109 is the first step. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments should be consulted. This data will indicate whether the area is considered a medically underserved area (MUA) or a health professional shortage area (HPSA). Such designations highlight the need for increased resources and physician recruitment.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by PCPs is vital. The analysis should identify standout practices within the ZIP code. This involves looking at factors like the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns. Reviews from patients, although subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in healthcare access. Its adoption by PCPs in 17109 is crucial. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring, which can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited access to healthcare. The analysis should investigate which practices offer telemedicine services and the types of services available, such as virtual check-ups, prescription refills, and specialist referrals.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Access to mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive care. The analysis needs to examine the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the ZIP code or nearby. This includes determining whether PCPs routinely screen patients for mental health concerns and whether they have established referral pathways to mental health services. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, for breast cancer patients and their families is another crucial factor.

The analysis should also consider the proximity and accessibility of specialized breast cancer centers and radiologists. Early detection often requires mammograms and other imaging services. The analysis must identify the locations of these facilities within or near 17109, assess their wait times for appointments, and evaluate the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis).

The integration of all these factors will contribute to a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for the primary care landscape in 17109. The score should reflect the overall capacity of the area to provide timely, high-quality, and supportive breast cancer care. This score is not a single number, but rather a holistic assessment based on the various factors discussed above.

The analysis will then provide a summary of the findings, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement. For instance, if the physician-to-patient ratio is high, the analysis should emphasize the need for physician recruitment efforts. If telemedicine adoption is low, the analysis should encourage practices to embrace virtual care options. If mental health resources are limited, the analysis should advocate for increased access to mental health services.

The final assessment will also consider the demographic makeup of the population within 17109. Are there disparities in access to care based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status? The analysis should identify any such disparities and suggest strategies to address them, such as targeted outreach programs or culturally sensitive healthcare services.

The ultimate goal of this “Breast Cancer Score” analysis is to empower residents of 17109 with information about the healthcare resources available to them. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in their community. This includes promoting breast cancer awareness and encouraging regular screenings.

For a more detailed and visually insightful understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17109, including the locations of PCPs, specialist centers, and support services, explore the power of geographic mapping with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a dynamic and interactive platform to visualize healthcare data, helping you to identify areas with the greatest need and to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.