17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.41 percent of the residents in 17214 has some form of health insurance. 59.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.54 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 17214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 158 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17214. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 314 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,096 health care providers accessible to residents in 17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17214 & Blue Ridge Summit Primary Care**

Analyzing healthcare quality, especially concerning breast cancer, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 17214 (Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas) and the availability of primary care in the nearby Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania, region. The goal is to assess the landscape for breast cancer care, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, technology adoption, and mental health support, all of which contribute to a "Breast Cancer Score" for this area. This score, while not a single number, reflects the overall preparedness and accessibility of care within the defined geographical parameters.

The cornerstone of any effective breast cancer care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs act as gatekeepers, providing initial screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing care coordination. In ZIP Code 17214, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can be used to estimate this ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, negatively impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." This is because fewer PCPs mean longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses.

Primary care availability in Blue Ridge Summit significantly influences the overall score. Residents of Blue Ridge Summit often rely on PCPs in neighboring areas, including Waynesboro. The ease of access to these physicians, considering factors like travel time and appointment availability, is crucial. If Blue Ridge Summit lacks sufficient primary care resources, the burden on Waynesboro's PCPs increases, potentially straining the system and affecting the quality of care for all patients, including those at risk for or battling breast cancer.

Beyond physician numbers, the characteristics of the medical practices in and around 17214 are essential. Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to proactive breast cancer screening and management. This includes offering comprehensive screening services, such as mammograms and breast ultrasounds, on-site or through readily available referral networks. Practices that actively educate patients about breast cancer risk factors, self-exams, and the importance of regular screenings contribute positively to the "Breast Cancer Score." Practices that utilize evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment further enhance the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to offer telehealth consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve the patient experience, reduce travel burdens, and potentially facilitate earlier intervention. Practices that utilize telehealth for breast cancer education and support groups also contribute positively to the score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are critical for breast cancer patients. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the healthcare system or through referral networks, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, such as offering on-site counseling or providing referrals to mental health specialists, receive a higher "Breast Cancer Score." Access to support groups and resources for emotional well-being is also vital.

Specific examples of standout practices in the 17214 area would be those that excel in the areas mentioned above. This could include practices that have a high patient-to-physician ratio, offer comprehensive screening services, actively promote patient education, utilize telemedicine, and integrate mental health resources. Identifying these practices requires a thorough review of publicly available information, patient reviews, and potentially, direct contact with the practices themselves.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not static. It is dynamic and changes based on the healthcare landscape. Regular assessments are necessary to track improvements or declines in care quality. Factors like changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of mental health resources all impact the score. The score serves as a tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for improvement.

The analysis of primary care availability in Blue Ridge Summit adds another layer of complexity. While Blue Ridge Summit itself may have limited healthcare resources, the proximity to Waynesboro and other surrounding areas is crucial. The ease of access to PCPs and specialists in these areas significantly influences the "Breast Cancer Score" for Blue Ridge Summit residents. The availability of transportation, the acceptance of insurance, and the wait times for appointments all contribute to the overall accessibility of care.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 17214 and the surrounding areas is a reflection of the collective efforts of the healthcare system. It is a measure of the community's commitment to providing high-quality, accessible, and comprehensive care for breast cancer patients. The score is not a definitive judgment but a starting point for ongoing improvement.

If you're interested in visualizing this data and exploring the healthcare landscape in 17214 and beyond, consider utilizing the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome can help you visualize physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, providing a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare environment.