17261, South Mountain, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17261, South Mountain, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 17261 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 17261 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17261. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,415 health care providers accessible to residents in 17261, South Mountain, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17261 & South Mountain Primary Care

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 17261 (Waynesboro, Pennsylvania) and the availability of primary care resources in the South Mountain region, specifically concerning their impact on breast cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. We will evaluate various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, to formulate a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and robust primary care. In South Mountain, the geographical challenges of a rural area, coupled with potential transportation limitations for some residents, necessitate a careful evaluation of primary care availability. This is the first critical element in our assessment. A sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs) is essential for early detection through regular screenings and referrals. We must assess the PCP-to-patient ratio within the South Mountain region, comparing it to both state and national averages. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, could significantly impact access to preventative care, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

The presence of standout medical practices within ZIP Code 17261 is another critical factor. We'll look for practices that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer care through the adoption of advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and the presence of dedicated breast health specialists. The accreditation status of local hospitals and imaging centers, particularly those specializing in breast health, will also be scrutinized. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) often signifies a commitment to quality standards and patient safety. The availability of multidisciplinary teams, including radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and nurses specializing in breast cancer care, is a strong indicator of a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Its ability to bridge geographical barriers and provide access to specialists can significantly improve patient outcomes. We will assess the extent to which primary care practices and specialist providers in the region offer telemedicine consultations for breast cancer-related concerns. This includes examining the availability of virtual appointments for follow-up care, consultations, and educational sessions. The ease of access to these services, including the technical infrastructure and patient support provided, will also be considered.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet crucial, component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have profound psychological impacts, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. Therefore, we must evaluate the availability of mental health resources within ZIP Code 17261 and the surrounding areas. This includes assessing the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or women's health. The integration of mental health services within the overall cancer care pathway, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be constructed by weighting these factors. The PCP-to-patient ratio will be given significant weight, reflecting the importance of early detection. The presence of standout practices, including their use of advanced technology and multidisciplinary teams, will also carry considerable weight. Telemedicine adoption will be assessed for its impact on accessibility, particularly for patients in geographically isolated areas. Finally, the availability of mental health resources will be considered for its contribution to the overall well-being of patients undergoing treatment.

The analysis will delve into specific practices within ZIP Code 17261. We will investigate the services offered by the local hospital, including its breast imaging capabilities, surgical options, and oncology services. We will identify any practices that have established a reputation for excellence in breast cancer care, noting their patient satisfaction scores, physician expertise, and the range of services provided. This will involve examining publicly available data, such as patient reviews and hospital ratings, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the patient experience.

For primary care in South Mountain, we will investigate the availability of PCPs in the surrounding communities. This includes assessing the number of PCPs, their specialties, and the types of insurance they accept. We will also look at the geographical distribution of these practices, identifying any areas with limited access to primary care. This information will be used to assess the overall accessibility of primary care services for residents of the South Mountain region.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" will be presented as a composite metric, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in ZIP Code 17261 and the surrounding South Mountain region. The score will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used, including the weighting of each factor. The analysis will highlight any areas of strength and weakness, providing insights that can be used to improve the quality of breast cancer care in the region.

This analysis is not intended to provide medical advice. Instead, it offers an objective assessment of the resources available to individuals in ZIP Code 17261 and the South Mountain region. It aims to empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care practices, specialist providers, and mental health services, and to understand their proximity to residents in ZIP Code 17261 and the South Mountain area, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to see the locations of providers and assess their accessibility based on your location.