17264, Three Springs, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17264, Three Springs, Pennsylvania is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.12 percent of the residents in 17264 has some form of health insurance. 50.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.67 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 17264 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 585 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17264. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 505 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 223 health care providers accessible to residents in 17264, Three Springs, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17264 and Three Springs Primary Care**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care within ZIP code 17264, focusing on primary care access in the Three Springs area. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, considering factors beyond simple physician counts, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to offer a comprehensive “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, enabling informed decision-making for patients and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of breast cancer care rests heavily on accessible and high-quality primary care. In the Three Springs area, understanding primary care availability is crucial. This includes assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the population. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative screenings, which are critical for early detection and successful treatment of breast cancer. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a more robust healthcare infrastructure, allowing for proactive care and potentially better patient outcomes.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly impact breast cancer care. We need to examine the types of practices available. Are there large, multi-specialty groups, or are practices primarily solo or small-group operations? Larger groups often offer a wider range of services, including on-site mammography and access to specialists, streamlining the patient journey. Solo practices may provide more personalized care but could have limited resources. The presence of patient navigators, individuals who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is another crucial factor. Their support can significantly improve patient experience and adherence to treatment plans.

Another vital aspect of the assessment is the integration of telemedicine. The adoption of telemedicine platforms has the potential to enhance access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility challenges. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for breast cancer patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue and other side effects. The availability of telemedicine also contributes to the overall "Breast Cancer Score" by increasing accessibility.

Mental health support is an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources, such as counselors, therapists, and support groups, within the primary care setting or through referrals, is therefore essential. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients demonstrate a commitment to holistic care, which contributes to a higher score. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is an important factor.

Evaluating the specific practices within ZIP code 17264 requires a deeper dive. Identifying standout practices involves examining their commitment to breast cancer screening guidelines, their use of evidence-based practices, and their patient satisfaction ratings. Practices that consistently meet or exceed national standards for mammography screening rates, for example, demonstrate a proactive approach to early detection. Patient testimonials and reviews provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the quality of communication, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall level of care.

Assessing the availability of specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is another crucial element. Proximity to specialized care is a significant factor in the overall "Breast Cancer Score." The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable distance can greatly improve patient outcomes. This also includes access to clinical trials and advanced treatment options. The ability to quickly access the specialists is important for timely diagnosis and treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are essential to capture changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and the adoption of new technologies. The score should also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served, including age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation. These factors can significantly impact access to care and patient outcomes.

The analysis should consider the availability of resources to support patients. This includes patient education materials, financial assistance programs, and support groups. Practices that actively provide this information and support demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to take an active role in their care. The availability of these resources is an important factor in the overall score.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 17264, with a focus on primary care availability in Three Springs, requires a multifaceted approach. It goes beyond simply counting physicians and considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialists. This comprehensive analysis provides a more accurate assessment of the healthcare landscape and enables informed decision-making for patients. It also highlights areas where improvements are needed to ensure that all individuals have access to high-quality breast cancer care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 17264 and Three Springs, including physician locations, facility accessibility, and potential gaps in care, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.