17408, York, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17408, York, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.97 percent of the residents in 17408 has some form of health insurance. 32.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.03 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 17408 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,875 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17408. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,623 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,903 health care providers accessible to residents in 17408, York, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: York, PA (ZIP Code 17408) and Primary Care Landscape

This analysis evaluates the landscape of breast cancer care within York, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on the 17408 ZIP code and the broader availability of primary care services within the city. We aim to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors such as physician availability, quality of care, access to resources, and integration of mental health support. This evaluation is not a definitive ranking but rather a comparative analysis based on available public data, industry reports, and observed trends.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is early detection and consistent follow-up. This necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure. In York, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial starting point. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline understanding. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau will be consulted to determine the approximate number of PCPs practicing within the city and the population they serve. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. However, this ratio alone doesn't paint the full picture.

Geographic distribution of PCPs is another critical consideration. Are physicians concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Examining the distribution of practices within the 17408 ZIP code and surrounding areas reveals potential access disparities. Public transportation availability, particularly for those without personal vehicles, significantly impacts access to appointments and follow-up care. The presence of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is a positive indicator, as these often serve vulnerable populations and provide a wider range of services, including breast cancer screenings and referrals.

Within the 17408 ZIP code, we will assess the specific practices and their approaches to breast cancer care. This includes identifying the presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine clinics, and women's health specialists. The inclusion of certified nurse practitioners (CNPs) and physician assistants (PAs) in these practices expands the capacity to provide care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. We will evaluate practices based on their adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This includes assessing the availability of mammography services, the use of evidence-based screening protocols, and the timeliness of referrals to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates communication and care coordination, improving patient outcomes. Practices with robust EHR systems often demonstrate better data management and patient follow-up capabilities.

Standout practices are identified by their proactive approach to patient care. This includes initiatives such as patient education programs, reminders for screenings, and comprehensive care plans. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, as evidenced by patient testimonials and satisfaction surveys, are considered favorably. The presence of dedicated breast cancer navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is a significant asset.

Telemedicine adoption has transformed healthcare access, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. The extent to which practices in the 17408 ZIP code utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions is evaluated. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists and reduce the burden of travel for patients. The integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. We assess the presence of on-site mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the practices. The availability of referrals to mental health specialists in the community is also considered. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers ensures that patients receive holistic support during their cancer journey. Practices that prioritize mental health integration are considered to provide a more patient-centered and compassionate approach to care.

The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, is not a simple numerical value. It's a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. Practices and the overall healthcare ecosystem within the 17408 ZIP code and York will be evaluated on their performance across these dimensions. The final assessment reflects the overall quality of breast cancer care available to the community.

The analysis will also consider the presence of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and community outreach programs. These resources provide crucial support and education for patients and their families. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations strengthens the overall support network.

The availability of specialized services, such as genetic counseling and high-risk screening programs, is also considered. These services are essential for patients with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors. The presence of these specialized services indicates a commitment to providing comprehensive care.

This analysis, while comprehensive, is limited by the availability of public data. The actual "Breast Cancer Score" will be based on the best available information and is intended to be a starting point for further investigation. It highlights areas of strength and areas where improvement is needed.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology, and integrate mental health support are best positioned to provide excellent breast cancer care. The availability of resources, the quality of care, and the integration of mental health support are all critical elements in this assessment.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in York, including physician locations, access to resources, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and informative way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.