17219, Doylesburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17219, Doylesburg, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.77 percent of the residents in 17219 has some form of health insurance. 58.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.78 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 17219 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 114 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17219. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 163 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,688 health care providers accessible to residents in 17219, Doylesburg, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17219 & Primary Care in Doylesburg

This analysis delves into the availability of breast cancer-related healthcare within ZIP code 17219 and the broader primary care landscape in Doylesburg, focusing on factors crucial for patient well-being and early detection. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement. The analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, exemplary practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a robust healthcare system.

ZIP code 17219, encompassing Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, is the focal point for our breast cancer-specific analysis. Assessing the availability of oncologists, radiologists specializing in mammography, and surgeons capable of performing breast cancer procedures is paramount. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A higher ratio of specialists to the population suggests greater accessibility. However, simply counting physicians is insufficient. The quality of care, the breadth of services offered, and the integration of these services are equally important.

The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within or near 17219 significantly enhances the score. Such centers typically offer multidisciplinary care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive services like genetic counseling and survivorship programs. The proximity of such a center reduces the burden on patients, minimizing travel time and facilitating seamless coordination of care.

Standout practices are those that go above and beyond standard care. These may include clinics with advanced imaging technology, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve detection rates, particularly in women with dense breasts. Practices that offer same-day or next-day appointments for diagnostic mammograms are also highly valued, reducing patient anxiety and speeding up the diagnostic process. Moreover, the adoption of patient navigation programs, where a dedicated individual guides patients through their treatment journey, significantly improves the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations with out-of-town specialists. This is particularly beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, who may experience fatigue and other side effects that make travel difficult. Telemedicine also expands access to specialists for patients in rural areas.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to psychologists, psychiatrists, and support groups is essential for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Shifting focus to Doylesburg and its primary care landscape, the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) are fundamental. PCPs play a vital role in breast cancer screening, ordering mammograms, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. A sufficient number of PCPs in Doylesburg, with reasonable patient loads, ensures that residents have timely access to preventive care.

The geographical distribution of PCPs within Doylesburg is also important. Are practices conveniently located, or do residents have to travel long distances to access care? The presence of after-hours clinics or urgent care facilities can further enhance access, particularly for patients who cannot schedule appointments during regular business hours.

Primary care practices in Doylesburg should also be evaluated based on their commitment to preventive care. Do they actively encourage mammography screening for eligible patients? Do they provide patient education materials about breast cancer risk factors and early detection? Practices that prioritize preventive care demonstrate a proactive approach to healthcare.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between PCPs and specialists, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of errors. They also enable patients to access their medical records and communicate with their providers online.

The availability of support services within the Doylesburg primary care network is also important. This includes access to social workers, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals who can provide comprehensive support to patients. The ability to connect patients with community resources, such as support groups and financial assistance programs, is also highly valued.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care requires a multifaceted approach, considering both the availability of specialists and the broader healthcare infrastructure. In ZIP code 17219, the presence of a comprehensive cancer center, advanced imaging technology, and patient navigation programs are critical for a high score. In Doylesburg, the availability of PCPs, their commitment to preventive care, and the integration of support services are paramount. Both regions benefit from the adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, access to cancer centers, and the distribution of primary care practices, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to analyze physician density, identify underserved areas, and make informed decisions about healthcare access.