17311, Codorus, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17311, Codorus, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.48 percent of the residents in 17311 has some form of health insurance. 45.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.64 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 17311 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17311. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 54 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,982 health care providers accessible to residents in 17311, Codorus, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17311 and Codorus, PA

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of breast cancer-related healthcare accessibility and support within ZIP code 17311 (Hanover, PA) and the surrounding area, with a particular focus on primary care availability in Codorus, PA. This evaluation considers factors relevant to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, aiming to provide a snapshot of the resources available to individuals navigating the complexities of breast cancer care. The analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. In Codorus, PA, understanding the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial. This includes the number of PCPs actively practicing within the area, considering the geographic distribution of these providers, and assessing the ease of scheduling appointments. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can hinder timely screenings and referrals, impacting early detection rates. Conversely, a higher ratio, coupled with efficient appointment scheduling processes, can significantly improve access to preventative care and diagnostic services.

Physician-to-patient ratios within ZIP code 17311 and the broader Codorus area require careful scrutiny. While a precise, up-to-the-minute ratio is difficult to ascertain without real-time data, publicly available sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can provide estimates. These estimates, however, may not fully reflect the actual availability of PCPs, as they may not account for factors like provider specialization, patient load, and insurance acceptance. A comprehensive assessment would require analyzing the number of active PCPs, their patient panels, and the average wait times for appointments.

Identifying standout practices within the region is also important. Practices that excel in breast cancer care often demonstrate several key characteristics. These include a proactive approach to preventative screenings, such as offering mammograms and other diagnostic tests on-site or through established partnerships. They also prioritize patient education, providing clear and concise information about breast cancer risk factors, self-examination techniques, and the importance of regular screenings. Furthermore, standout practices often have established referral pathways to specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, ensuring seamless transitions for patients requiring further care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. The ability to access healthcare services remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in areas with limited access to specialists. Examining the extent to which PCPs and specialists in the 17311 ZIP code and Codorus area utilize telemedicine platforms is essential. This includes assessing the types of services offered via telemedicine, such as virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Increased telemedicine adoption can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients.

Mental health support is a critical 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. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within the 17311 ZIP code and Codorus area is essential. This includes identifying the number of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. Additionally, evaluating the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community for patients.

The presence of dedicated breast cancer centers or specialized clinics within or near the 17311 ZIP code area is also a key factor. These centers typically offer a comprehensive range of services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support services, all under one roof. They often employ multidisciplinary teams of specialists, ensuring coordinated and patient-centered care. The existence of these centers can significantly improve the quality of care and streamline the patient experience.

Evaluating the insurance landscape is also important. Understanding which insurance providers are accepted by the PCPs and specialists in the area is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of in-network providers for major insurance plans, as well as the cost of care, including co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. Access to affordable care is a key determinant of patient outcomes.

Furthermore, patient education materials and resources play a crucial role in empowering individuals to take an active role in their health. Assessing the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and support groups, that provide information about breast cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options is essential. These resources should be readily accessible and easy to understand.

Finally, it is important to consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the healthcare providers in the 17311 ZIP code and Codorus area. This includes understanding the racial and ethnic diversity of the population, as well as the socioeconomic factors that may impact access to care. Addressing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to care for all individuals is paramount.

This preliminary analysis provides a framework for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP code 17311 and Codorus, PA. A more in-depth investigation, including data collection and analysis, is necessary to provide a comprehensive and actionable assessment. This could involve surveying local healthcare providers, analyzing patient data, and conducting community needs assessments. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to develop strategies to improve access to care, enhance patient outcomes, and reduce the burden of breast cancer in the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 17311 ZIP code and Codorus area, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, access to care, and other relevant factors, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data analysis. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize these data points and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available to you.