17356, Red Lion, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17356, Red Lion, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.55 percent of the residents in 17356 has some form of health insurance. 30.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.06 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 17356 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,215 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17356. An estimate of 43 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,615 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,478 health care providers accessible to residents in 17356, Red Lion, Pennsylvania.

The task of evaluating healthcare quality, especially concerning a specific disease like breast cancer, necessitates a multifaceted approach. Analyzing physicians in ZIP Code 17356, Red Lion, Pennsylvania, requires assessing not just the raw number of doctors, but also the availability of primary care, the adoption of modern practices like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support, all crucial for comprehensive breast cancer care. This analysis will delve into these aspects, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographical area.

The foundation of any good healthcare system lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors act as the initial point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screening, and referrals to specialists when needed. In Red Lion, evaluating the availability of PCPs is paramount. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio, coupled with efficient appointment scheduling and patient management systems, can indicate a more accessible and responsive healthcare environment. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from insurance providers, can help determine this ratio. Further investigation into the types of primary care practices available, such as family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners, is necessary to understand the range of services offered.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. Are PCPs in Red Lion actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms? Do they utilize evidence-based guidelines for risk assessment and management? Do they offer patient education materials and support resources? These factors significantly impact a patient's likelihood of early detection and successful treatment. Practices that proactively address these aspects, perhaps through dedicated patient navigators or streamlined referral processes, would likely score higher in a quality assessment.

Identifying standout practices within the 17356 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This involves looking beyond simple metrics and examining the practices' commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer flexible appointment scheduling, and have a strong track record of positive patient outcomes would stand out. Reviews from patients, available through online platforms and patient satisfaction surveys, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as health fairs or educational seminars, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and community well-being.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor in assessing healthcare quality. Telemedicine offers numerous benefits, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. It can reduce travel time, improve access to specialists, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Practices in Red Lion that have embraced telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education would likely score higher. The availability of secure and user-friendly telehealth platforms, coupled with staff training on their effective use, is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to this technology.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is critical in breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Practices that recognize this and offer access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This could involve partnerships with therapists, support groups, or access to online mental health resources. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and provide appropriate support would score higher.

Analyzing the availability of breast cancer specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, is also critical. The proximity of these specialists to primary care physicians influences the ease of referral and coordination of care. The presence of a local hospital or cancer center with a multidisciplinary team specializing in breast cancer treatment is a significant advantage. Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography and MRI, is another important factor. The quality of these specialists, as measured by their experience, credentials, and patient outcomes, also influences the overall quality score.

Furthermore, the healthcare ecosystem in Red Lion should be assessed. This involves evaluating the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, financial assistance programs, and support groups. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access resources. Financial assistance programs can help patients afford the cost of treatment. Support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to share experiences and receive emotional support. The availability of these resources significantly enhances the patient experience and improves outcomes.

The data collection for this analysis should involve multiple sources. Publicly available data from government agencies, insurance providers, and healthcare directories can provide information on physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, and practice locations. Patient reviews and online platforms can offer insights into patient experiences and practice quality. Direct communication with healthcare providers through surveys or interviews can provide detailed information on their practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape for breast cancer care in Red Lion, Pennsylvania, requires a comprehensive assessment. It involves examining the availability and quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of breast cancer specialists. Identifying standout practices and assessing the availability of support services are also crucial. This nuanced analysis provides a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape and helps patients make informed decisions about their care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Red Lion and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you identify the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, allowing you to see the geographical distribution of resources and assess their accessibility.