17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.89 percent of the residents in 17363 has some form of health insurance. 32.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.34 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 17363 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,692 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17363. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,721 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,776 health care providers accessible to residents in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Stewartstown, PA (ZIP Code 17363)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care resources within ZIP code 17363, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, ultimately aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" for the area. The assessment is tailored to the specific needs of individuals seeking comprehensive breast cancer care, from preventative screening to supportive services.

Stewartstown, Pennsylvania, a small borough in York County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. Its rural setting influences resource availability, particularly concerning specialized medical services. Understanding the local landscape is crucial to accurately evaluate the quality of breast cancer care available to its residents.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care often rests on the strength of the primary care network. PCPs are typically the first point of contact for patients, responsible for preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. Assessing the availability of PCPs within 17363, and the surrounding areas that residents might utilize, is therefore paramount. Information regarding the number of practicing PCPs, their patient load, and their acceptance of new patients must be gathered.

Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential delays in diagnosis or treatment. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, along with information from local hospitals and clinics, is essential to calculate this ratio accurately for the Stewartstown area. This ratio will significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout primary care practices within or near 17363 is essential. This involves evaluating factors beyond just the number of physicians. The practices' commitment to preventative care, including mammography screening recommendations and adherence to national guidelines, is a key indicator. Practices that actively track patient screening rates and offer reminders are particularly valuable.

Furthermore, the presence of on-site services, such as basic laboratory testing, can streamline the diagnostic process. Convenient access to these services improves the patient experience and can lead to quicker results. The availability of multilingual staff or services catering to diverse patient populations is also a factor. Practices that prioritize patient education and offer resources on breast cancer awareness and risk factors will receive a higher rating.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within the primary care practices of 17363 is a crucial consideration. Practices offering virtual consultations for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, or initial consultations can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

The availability of telemedicine for breast cancer-related concerns, such as discussing screening results or providing emotional support, is particularly beneficial. Assessing the types of telemedicine platforms used, their ease of use, and the availability of technical support for patients is important. Practices that integrate telemedicine seamlessly into their care model will receive a higher score.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental health. Access to mental health support services is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Stewartstown area, or accessible through referral networks, is essential.

The presence of mental health services specifically tailored to cancer patients is highly desirable. Support groups, individual therapy, and access to psychiatric care are all crucial components of holistic breast cancer care. Assessing the integration of mental health services into the primary care practices and their referral processes is a key factor in evaluating the overall quality of care available. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide resources will receive a higher rating.

**Creating the Breast Cancer Score:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite metric derived from the factors discussed above. Each factor will be weighted based on its importance in providing quality breast cancer care. For example, physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of preventative screening services will likely carry a higher weight than the availability of multilingual staff.

The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to, and quality of, breast cancer care resources. The score will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology and the rationale behind the weighting system. This transparency is crucial to allow residents to understand how the score was calculated and to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The Breast Cancer Score will not only reflect the current state of care but also highlight areas where improvements are needed. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to improve access to care and enhance the overall quality of life for residents of 17363. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to proactively manage their health and receive the best possible care.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

This analysis provides a framework for assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Stewartstown, PA. The factors discussed – primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – are all vital components of comprehensive care.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in 17363 and surrounding areas, we invite you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to explore the geographic distribution of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare providers, providing valuable insights into the accessibility of care in your community. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a comprehensive understanding of your local healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.