17402, York, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17402, York, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.36 percent of the residents in 17402 has some form of health insurance. 33.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.06 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 17402 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,502 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17402. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,217 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,011 health care providers accessible to residents in 17402, York, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: York, PA (ZIP Code 17402) & Primary Care Landscape

This analysis provides a nuanced understanding of the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP Code 17402 in York, Pennsylvania, and the broader primary care environment impacting access to screening and early detection. We will evaluate factors contributing to a hypothetical "Breast Cancer Score," considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive services. This is not a formal medical rating, but rather an assessment based on publicly available information and general healthcare trends.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system rests on accessible primary care. In York, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial determinant of the overall score. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per PCP, can strain resources and potentially delay preventative care, including breast cancer screenings. Conversely, a lower ratio generally suggests better access. Data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and local health departments can provide insights into these ratios within York County. The analysis would need to consider the geographic distribution of PCPs within 17402, identifying potential "healthcare deserts" where access is limited.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Practices that actively promote preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings, will contribute positively to the score. This involves not only offering mammograms but also educating patients about risk factors, performing clinical breast exams, and providing clear referral pathways to specialists if abnormalities are detected. Practices with established patient portals and efficient appointment scheduling systems further enhance accessibility and contribute to a higher score.

Within ZIP Code 17402, the presence of specific medical practices and their characteristics must be examined. Are there any standout practices? These might be identified through patient reviews, awards, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems. Practices with a demonstrable commitment to breast cancer care, such as dedicated women's health centers or partnerships with local cancer support organizations, would receive higher marks. The analysis would delve into the services offered by these practices, including the availability of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve detection rates.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability for patients to consult with their PCPs or specialists remotely, especially for follow-up appointments or discussing screening results, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and offer virtual consultations would score higher in this area. This includes the ease of use of the platform, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine with the practice's electronic health record system.

The mental health of patients is inextricably linked to their physical well-being, particularly in the context of a breast cancer diagnosis. The availability of mental health resources, both within primary care practices and in the broader community, is essential. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, partner with mental health professionals, or provide referrals to support groups contribute positively to the score. The analysis would investigate the prevalence of these resources within 17402 and the accessibility of mental health support for patients navigating the emotional challenges of breast cancer.

The integration of these elements – physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – forms the basis of the Breast Cancer Score. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that prioritizes access to preventative care, early detection, and comprehensive support for patients. Conversely, a low score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, or expanding mental health services.

This analysis would also consider the presence of specialized breast cancer centers or oncology practices within or near 17402. The availability of these centers, which often provide comprehensive care including diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship support, is a significant positive factor. The proximity of these centers, the types of treatments offered (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery), and the expertise of the medical staff all contribute to the overall score.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the socioeconomic factors that impact access to care. Areas with higher rates of poverty or limited access to transportation may require additional interventions to ensure equitable access to breast cancer screenings and treatment. This could involve mobile mammography units, financial assistance programs, or community outreach initiatives.

The success of breast cancer care depends on a collaborative approach. This analysis would assess the level of collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, hospitals, and community organizations. Practices that actively participate in multidisciplinary teams, share patient information effectively, and engage in community outreach efforts would receive higher marks.

Finally, the analysis would consider the availability of patient education materials and resources. Practices that provide clear, concise information about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options empower patients to make informed decisions about their health. This includes offering educational materials in multiple languages and providing access to support groups and online resources.

The Breast Cancer Score is a dynamic measure that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents of 17402 have access to the best possible breast cancer care. This involves not only assessing the current state of the healthcare system but also tracking trends in screening rates, diagnosis rates, and patient outcomes.

The insights gleaned from this type of analysis can be further enhanced through the use of advanced mapping tools. Visualizing the data geographically, identifying areas with limited access to care, and pinpointing the locations of key resources can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the breast cancer care landscape.