17702, Williamsport, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17702, Williamsport, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.54 percent of the residents in 17702 has some form of health insurance. 37.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.88 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 17702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,259 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17702. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,098 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,270 health care providers accessible to residents in 17702, Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Williamsport, PA (ZIP Code 17702)**

Williamsport, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Lycoming County, presents a unique landscape for breast cancer care. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related services within the 17702 ZIP code, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Williamsport, primary care availability is a critical factor. The ability to secure timely appointments with primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial for early detection and ongoing management. Delays in accessing primary care can translate to delays in mammograms, potentially impacting the stage at which breast cancer is diagnosed. The density of PCPs within the 17702 ZIP code, relative to the population, is a key metric. Areas with a higher concentration of PCPs, and shorter wait times for appointments, generally score higher in this category.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a significant indicator of healthcare access. A favorable ratio, indicating a greater number of physicians per capita, can translate to reduced wait times, more personalized care, and improved patient outcomes. In Williamsport, the ratio of PCPs, oncologists, radiologists specializing in breast imaging, and surgeons capable of performing breast biopsies and lumpectomies is a crucial element in this analysis. This ratio is then compared to national and state averages to determine the relative strength of the local healthcare infrastructure. The availability of specialists is particularly important in breast cancer care, requiring a multidisciplinary approach.

Identifying standout practices within the 17702 ZIP code requires a deeper dive into their services, patient reviews, and accreditations. Practices that offer comprehensive breast cancer screening, diagnostic services, and treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions, are highly valued. The presence of accredited cancer centers, adhering to rigorous standards of care, is a significant positive factor. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials and offer cutting-edge treatment options demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews provide valuable insights into the quality of care delivered.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to access virtual consultations with PCPs, oncologists, and other specialists can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for follow-up care, medication management, and even some initial consultations, are likely to receive a higher score. The availability of remote monitoring technologies, allowing physicians to track patient progress and adjust treatment plans remotely, is also a positive factor.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, specializing in oncology or cancer-related issues, is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks to mental health providers are highly valued. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community for patients. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan significantly enhances the patient experience and improves outcomes.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Williamsport (17702) is a composite of these factors. Each category – primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – is weighted based on its relative importance. The final score provides a snapshot of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvement is needed. This score is not a definitive judgment of the quality of care, but rather an assessment of the accessibility and availability of key resources.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape in Williamsport, PA (17702) presents a mixed picture. While the availability of primary care and the physician-to-patient ratio require careful assessment, the presence of accredited cancer centers and the adoption of telemedicine are positive indicators. The integration of mental health resources is also a critical factor. To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare resources available in Williamsport, and to visualize the geographic distribution of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.