17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.71 percent of the residents in 17324 has some form of health insurance. 37.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.91 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 17324 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17324. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,059 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,042 health care providers accessible to residents in 17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Gardners, PA (ZIP Code 17324)

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within the 17324 ZIP code, focusing on primary care physician availability in Gardners, Pennsylvania, and evaluating factors crucial to patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately informing patients about their options. The analysis considers several key areas, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of breast cancer care.

Gardners, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The rural nature of the area can impact the availability of specialized medical services, including those dedicated to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Therefore, the analysis places significant emphasis on primary care physician (PCP) availability as the initial point of contact and a critical gateway to specialized care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In a rural setting, a low ratio can signify limited access to primary care, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. While precise physician-to-patient ratios for 17324 are difficult to ascertain due to data limitations, publicly available resources from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide estimates and identify areas of potential shortage. The analysis will consider these resources to evaluate the availability of PCPs in the area. A low ratio necessitates longer wait times for appointments and potentially increased travel distances, posing significant challenges for patients, especially those requiring frequent check-ups or experiencing mobility limitations.

Identifying standout practices within the 17324 ZIP code is crucial. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria relevant to breast cancer care. These criteria include the availability of female physicians, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information sharing, the presence of on-site mammography services, and the integration of patient education programs. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs related to breast cancer awareness and early detection are also considered favorably. Furthermore, the analysis will examine patient reviews and testimonials to gauge patient satisfaction and the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a vital tool for bridging geographical gaps and enhancing access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices in Gardners have embraced telemedicine. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and consultations with specialists. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who find it difficult to travel, allowing them to receive timely care and reducing the burden of travel costs and time. Practices that offer telehealth services are considered to be more patient-centric and demonstrate a commitment to providing accessible care.

The integration of mental health resources into breast cancer care is increasingly recognized as essential. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices and in the broader community. This includes assessing whether practices offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. The presence of support groups, educational materials on coping with stress and anxiety, and access to psychiatric care are also considered. Practices that prioritize mental health demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for financial assistance and social support. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and patients may face financial hardships. Practices that offer assistance with navigating insurance coverage, connecting patients with financial aid programs, and providing information on social support services are considered to be more patient-focused. These resources can alleviate some of the stress associated with a cancer diagnosis and treatment, allowing patients to focus on their health.

The analysis will consider the presence of any specialized breast cancer centers or affiliations with larger healthcare systems. Proximity to these centers can significantly impact access to advanced diagnostic tools, specialized treatments, and clinical trials. The analysis will assess the travel distance to these centers and the level of collaboration between primary care practices and these specialized facilities.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" for the 17324 ZIP code will be a composite score reflecting the availability of resources, the quality of care provided, and the integration of patient-centered services. The score will be based on the criteria discussed above, with each criterion weighted according to its importance in breast cancer care. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing patients with a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in their community. The analysis will provide recommendations for improving access to care and enhancing the quality of services.

The analysis will acknowledge that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and this analysis represents a snapshot in time. Regular updates and revisions will be necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, technology adoption, and the availability of resources. The goal is to provide patients with the most current and accurate information possible, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The analysis will also consider the impact of social determinants of health on breast cancer outcomes. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural beliefs can significantly influence a patient's ability to access and benefit from healthcare services. The analysis will identify any disparities in care and recommend strategies for addressing them.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" analysis aims to be a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders. By providing a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape, the analysis can help to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately, improve breast cancer outcomes in the 17324 ZIP code.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Gardners, PA (ZIP Code 17324), including physician locations, access to services, and community resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed, data-driven maps that can help you navigate the healthcare options available in your community.