17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.55 percent of the residents in 17239 has some form of health insurance. 31.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.48 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 17239 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 57 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17239. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 36 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,348 health care providers accessible to residents in 17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17239 & Primary Care in Neelyton

This analysis aims to evaluate the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 17239 (and its surrounding areas) and assess the availability of primary care resources in Neelyton, Pennsylvania, with a focus on factors impacting patient outcomes. We will construct a hypothetical "Breast Cancer Score" based on various metrics, offering a nuanced perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this region. The goal is to highlight areas for improvement and provide actionable insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

The foundation of a strong breast cancer care system lies in accessible and quality primary care. In Neelyton, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, limited access to preventative screenings, and overall poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a high ratio suggests a more robust system, allowing for more personalized care and timely referrals to specialists. We need to assess if Neelyton has adequate primary care resources.

For ZIP code 17239, we must evaluate the availability of specialized breast cancer care. This includes the presence of oncologists, radiologists specializing in mammography and other breast imaging, surgeons proficient in breast cancer procedures, and support staff like oncology nurses and patient navigators. The concentration of these specialists within the ZIP code, or within a reasonable driving distance, directly impacts the patient's experience and the speed with which they can access necessary treatments.

Standout practices within 17239 would likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes offering advanced diagnostic technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and employing multidisciplinary teams that collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans. The existence of accredited breast centers, adhering to stringent quality standards, would also be a significant positive factor. These centers often offer a range of services under one roof, streamlining the patient journey and improving coordination of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine technologies would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of remote monitoring tools, allowing for continuous tracking of patient health metrics, would further enhance the score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model would be highly valued. This includes providing access to oncology social workers, therapists specializing in cancer care, and support groups. The availability of these resources can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of their illness.

The proximity of specialized cancer centers is another factor. If 17239 is near a major cancer center, such as a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated facility, it would significantly boost the score. These centers often offer cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a wealth of expertise. Even if the center is outside the ZIP code, ease of access and transportation options are important considerations.

The presence of patient navigation programs is also crucial. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing emotional support, and ensuring they receive the resources they need. Practices with dedicated patient navigation programs demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and would receive a higher score.

Insurance coverage and financial assistance programs are also important. The availability of affordable healthcare is essential. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs to patients struggling to afford treatment would receive a higher score.

The overall Breast Cancer Score would be a composite of these factors. It would not be a simple numerical value, but rather a nuanced assessment reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape. The score would provide a framework for understanding the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in 17239 and the surrounding areas.

The analysis of primary care availability in Neelyton would be interwoven into this overall assessment. A strong primary care foundation is essential for early detection and timely referrals. The availability of PCPs, their willingness to provide breast cancer screenings, and their ability to coordinate care with specialists are all critical factors.

The score would also consider the patient experience. Patient satisfaction surveys, feedback mechanisms, and online reviews would be used to assess the quality of care from the patient's perspective. Practices with high patient satisfaction ratings would receive a higher score.

The goal of this analysis is not to provide a definitive ranking but to offer a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care ecosystem in the region. It is intended to be a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.

This analysis is a complex undertaking, requiring the integration of data from various sources. Visualizing this data geographically can provide even deeper insights.

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