17724, Canton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17724, Canton, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.52 percent of the residents in 17724 has some form of health insurance. 42.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.82 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 17724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,130 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17724. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,035 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 71 health care providers accessible to residents in 17724, Canton, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Canton, PA (ZIP Code 17724)

Analyzing the availability of quality breast cancer care in Canton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17724) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors beyond just the presence of physicians, delving into the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial elements in a patient's journey. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement within the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact, responsible for routine screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio within the 17724 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times for screenings, and potentially, delayed diagnoses. The availability of PCPs in Canton is a critical first step in assessing the overall quality of care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices matters. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate seamless information sharing with specialists? These factors contribute significantly to the patient experience and the efficiency of care delivery. A well-functioning primary care system is the backbone upon which specialized breast cancer services are built.

Once a patient is suspected of having breast cancer, timely access to specialized care becomes paramount. This includes access to oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists experienced in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. In a rural area like Canton, the availability of these specialists might be limited. This necessitates an examination of referral patterns, the distance patients must travel for specialized care, and the potential impact of travel time on patient outcomes.

The presence of a local hospital or clinic equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, such as mammography machines, ultrasound, and MRI scanners, is another crucial factor. These tools are essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of the disease. The availability of these resources within or near the 17724 ZIP code significantly impacts the speed and convenience of care. Furthermore, the quality of the equipment and the expertise of the technicians performing the tests are equally important.

Telemedicine offers a valuable solution to address geographical limitations in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers can significantly improve access to specialists, particularly for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption within the Canton healthcare system is a key component of this analysis. Do local practices offer virtual appointments? Are they utilizing remote monitoring tools to track patient progress? The more widespread the use of telemedicine, the better the "Breast Cancer Score."

Breast cancer treatment is not just about physical health; it profoundly impacts a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for navigating the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Assessing the availability of these resources within the Canton community is a critical aspect of this analysis. Are there local mental health professionals specializing in oncology? Are support groups readily available? Addressing the psychological needs of patients is an integral part of providing comprehensive breast cancer care.

Standout practices within the 17724 ZIP code or serving the area deserve special recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, early detection, and treatment outcomes is important. This could include practices that consistently achieve high screening rates, offer comprehensive patient education programs, or actively participate in clinical trials. Recognizing these standout practices helps to highlight best practices and encourage continuous improvement across the healthcare system.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the ever-changing healthcare landscape. This analysis is a snapshot in time, providing a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of breast cancer care in Canton. It highlights areas where improvements are needed to ensure that all residents have access to timely, high-quality, and comprehensive care. The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall score.

The analysis also considers the potential impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Factors such as insurance coverage, transportation access, and cultural sensitivity can significantly influence a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Addressing these disparities is crucial to ensuring equitable access to breast cancer services for all residents of Canton.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Canton, Pennsylvania (17724) is a composite measure. It reflects the availability of primary care, the presence of specialists, the adoption of technology, and the availability of mental health support. It's a dynamic assessment, acknowledging the ongoing evolution of healthcare. It's a call to action, urging continuous improvement and ensuring that all residents have access to the best possible care.

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