17215, Burnt Cabins, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17215, Burnt Cabins, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17215 has some form of health insurance. 37.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.43 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 17215 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 36 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17215. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 28 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,005 health care providers accessible to residents in 17215, Burnt Cabins, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17215 and Primary Care in Burnt Cabins

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 17215 (Chambersburg, Pennsylvania) and the primary care resources available to residents of Burnt Cabins, Pennsylvania, with a focus on factors impacting the quality and accessibility of care. The evaluation incorporates elements relevant to early detection, treatment access, and overall patient well-being. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the available resources and potential areas for improvement.

ZIP Code 17215, encompassing Chambersburg, presents a relatively developed healthcare environment. The presence of Chambersburg Hospital, a member of WellSpan Health, is a significant asset. This hospital offers comprehensive cancer services, including diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy. The availability of these services within a single facility streamlines care coordination and reduces the burden on patients. This is a crucial factor in improving patient outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios in 17215, particularly for primary care physicians (PCPs), are a key indicator of access. While precise figures fluctuate, the area generally experiences a moderate PCP shortage. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the crucial initial screening for breast cancer. The presence of WellSpan’s network helps mitigate this to some extent by offering a wider pool of physicians. However, the demand for primary care services, coupled with the aging population in the region, poses a challenge.

Standout practices within 17215 are those demonstrating a commitment to early detection and patient-centered care. Practices that offer convenient mammography screening options, such as extended hours or weekend appointments, are particularly valuable. Furthermore, those integrating patient navigators or care coordinators to guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment are highly commendable. These navigators assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care between specialists, and providing emotional support.

Telemedicine adoption in 17215 has likely increased in recent years, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth offers a valuable tool for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Practices that embrace telemedicine, particularly for consultations and education, are better positioned to serve a wider patient base and improve access to care.

Mental health resources are a crucial, often overlooked, component of breast cancer care. The emotional toll of a diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be significant. Practices that proactively address mental health needs, either through in-house counselors or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also beneficial.

Burnt Cabins, Pennsylvania, presents a different healthcare landscape. Being a more rural area, primary care availability is a significant concern. The distance to the nearest primary care physicians and specialists is a major barrier to accessing timely breast cancer screening and treatment. This can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Burnt Cabins is likely significantly lower than in Chambersburg. Residents may need to travel considerable distances to see a PCP, which can be especially challenging for elderly individuals or those with mobility issues. This scarcity of primary care underscores the importance of preventative care education and community outreach programs to promote breast cancer awareness and encourage early screening.

Standout practices in this context are those that offer outreach programs, such as mobile mammography units that visit the community or those that partner with local organizations to provide health education and screening events. These initiatives can help bridge the geographical gap and improve access to care for residents of Burnt Cabins.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly important for Burnt Cabins. Telehealth can connect residents with specialists, provide access to mental health counseling, and facilitate follow-up care, mitigating the challenges of distance and limited local resources. The availability of reliable internet access is, of course, a prerequisite for effective telemedicine use.

Mental health resources are equally critical in Burnt Cabins. The isolation of rural living, combined with the stress of a potential breast cancer diagnosis, can exacerbate mental health challenges. Identifying and connecting residents with mental health services, even if those services are accessed remotely, is essential. Collaboration between primary care providers, mental health professionals, and community organizations is crucial.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape in 17215 is generally more robust than in Burnt Cabins, primarily due to the presence of a major hospital and a more concentrated population. However, both areas face challenges related to physician shortages, access to mental health resources, and the need for proactive outreach and patient education. The integration of telemedicine and a focus on patient-centered care are crucial for improving outcomes in both locations.

For a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in these areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and access to screening facilities, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare services and can assist in identifying areas with the greatest need.