17113, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17113, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.48 percent of the residents in 17113 has some form of health insurance. 41.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.80 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 17113 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,764 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 45 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17113. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,455 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,963 health care providers accessible to residents in 17113, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer, a formidable adversary, demands meticulous attention across the entire spectrum of care, from early detection to comprehensive treatment and ongoing support. Evaluating the quality of breast cancer care within a specific geographic area provides valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of breast cancer-related medical services for individuals residing in ZIP code 17113, encompassing parts of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, while also considering the broader context of primary care availability within the city. We will assess the current landscape, examining physician-to-patient ratios, highlighting standout practices, and investigating the adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on the availability of skilled medical professionals. Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of access. In ZIP code 17113, the density of oncologists, radiologists specializing in breast imaging, and surgeons capable of performing breast-related procedures is paramount. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per patient, generally translates to improved access to timely consultations, screenings, and treatments. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and professional medical organizations would be essential to accurately determine these ratios. This involves analyzing the number of specialists practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population, factoring in age and gender demographics, as these significantly influence breast cancer risk. A shortage of specialists could lead to delayed diagnoses, longer wait times for appointments, and ultimately, potentially poorer outcomes.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of individual practices must be considered. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key factors. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer, is a strong indicator of adherence to rigorous standards of care. These accreditations signify that a facility meets specific criteria related to multidisciplinary care, patient navigation, clinical trials, and quality improvement initiatives. Patient reviews, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care. Further, the availability of advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), MRI, and genomic testing, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment planning. Practices that embrace these advancements often demonstrate a commitment to staying at the forefront of breast cancer care.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly impact access to breast cancer care, particularly in areas with limited resources or for patients who face transportation challenges. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and access to educational resources. In ZIP code 17113, the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms should be assessed. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care continuum. Practices that proactively embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding access and improving patient convenience.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Mental health resources are a critical component of comprehensive care. The availability of oncology-specific mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services within ZIP code 17113 is vital. Assessing the integration of mental health services into the care pathway, such as routine screenings for anxiety and depression, is crucial. Practices that offer these resources demonstrate a commitment to addressing the holistic needs of their patients, recognizing that physical and emotional well-being are inextricably linked. Collaboration between oncologists, mental health professionals, and support organizations is essential to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

The broader context of primary care availability in Harrisburg, and by extension, within ZIP code 17113, also influences breast cancer outcomes. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in preventive care, including breast cancer screening. Adequate access to primary care physicians ensures that women receive timely mammograms and are referred to specialists when necessary. Analyzing the patient-to-physician ratio for primary care providers within the city, along with the availability of convenient appointment scheduling and insurance acceptance, provides a more comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape. A robust primary care system serves as the first line of defense in early detection, which significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in ZIP code 17113 and the surrounding Harrisburg area requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, the quality of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the strength of the primary care system. The findings of such an analysis should be used to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, ultimately leading to improvements in access to care, quality of treatment, and patient outcomes. This data can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to guide the development of targeted interventions to address any identified gaps in care. The goal is to ensure that all individuals in the community have access to the best possible breast cancer care, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location.

To visualize and better understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and areas with limited access to care, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps offers a powerful platform for visualizing this data, allowing you to explore the healthcare landscape in Harrisburg and beyond. Explore the possibilities.