17112, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17112, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.02 percent of the residents in 17112 has some form of health insurance. 29.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.63 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 17112 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,703 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 45 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17112. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,884 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,344 health care providers accessible to residents in 17112, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care within the ZIP code 17112 (Harrisburg, PA), focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to assess the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the area, considering these crucial factors for patient well-being and access to quality care. This analysis is designed to be informative and actionable, providing insights for residents seeking breast cancer services.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. In 17112, assessing this requires examining the concentration of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast health, and primary care physicians. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of specialists is paramount. A low ratio of specialists to the population can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and potentially more comprehensive care. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local hospital systems are essential to determine the current ratios.

Primary care availability significantly impacts breast cancer detection and management. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, conducting routine screenings, referring patients to specialists, and coordinating care. A robust primary care network, with readily accessible appointments and a focus on preventative care, is crucial for early detection. Evaluating primary care availability involves examining the number of primary care practices, their patient load, and their responsiveness to patient needs. Data on appointment wait times, after-hours care options, and insurance acceptance are essential components of this evaluation.

Standout practices in 17112 are those that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. These practices often feature a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive treatment. They may also offer advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Patient reviews, accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS), and participation in clinical trials are key indicators of a practice's quality. Identifying these standout practices requires a thorough investigation of local healthcare providers, including their services, technology, and patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. In the context of breast cancer, telemedicine can be used for follow-up appointments, consultations, and even some types of pre-operative and post-operative care. Assessing telemedicine adoption in 17112 involves identifying practices that offer telehealth services, evaluating the types of services available, and assessing patient satisfaction with the telemedicine experience. The availability of secure video conferencing platforms, remote monitoring capabilities, and patient education materials are essential elements of a successful telemedicine program.

Mental health resources are an integral component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial for helping patients cope with these challenges. Evaluating mental health resources in 17112 involves identifying mental health providers who specialize in cancer care, assessing the availability of support groups and educational programs, and evaluating the integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan. The presence of social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists within oncology practices is a positive indicator.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 17112 is a composite measure reflecting the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the area. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score indicates a strong healthcare environment with ample access to specialists, comprehensive treatment options, and robust support services. A lower score suggests potential challenges in accessing care, such as limited specialist availability, long wait times, and a lack of integrated support services. Regularly updating this score is vital to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and to identify areas for improvement.

Specific examples of practices and providers in 17112 are critical to a detailed assessment. This includes identifying the major hospitals, such as UPMC Harrisburg, and their associated cancer centers. These centers often house a multidisciplinary team of specialists and offer advanced treatment options. Identifying the specific physicians, their specializations, and their affiliations is essential for evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. Researching the primary care practices in the area, their patient load, and their focus on preventative care is equally important. This granular data provides the foundation for a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis.

Furthermore, understanding the insurance landscape is crucial. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers influences access to care for many residents. Examining which insurance plans are accepted by oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists in 17112 provides valuable insights. This includes understanding the availability of in-network providers and the potential costs associated with out-of-network care. The availability of financial assistance programs for patients who cannot afford care is also a factor.

The role of patient advocacy groups and community organizations should not be overlooked. These groups often provide valuable support services, such as educational programs, support groups, and financial assistance. Identifying these organizations and understanding their impact on patient care is essential. Their presence can significantly enhance the overall "Breast Cancer Score" by providing additional resources and support for patients.

In conclusion, a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis for 17112 requires a detailed examination of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and to identify areas for improvement. The goal is to provide residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to ensure that they have access to the best possible care.

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