17727, Cedar Run, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17727, Cedar Run, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17727 has some form of health insurance. 86.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.00 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 17727 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17727. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9 health care providers accessible to residents in 17727, Cedar Run, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Cedar Run, PA (ZIP Code 17727)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 17727, specifically focusing on breast cancer care and primary care availability in Cedar Run, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for this rural Pennsylvania community.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Cedar Run, a rural area, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare access. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data collection from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, local hospitals, and insurance providers is essential to accurately determine this ratio. The analysis will consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population served.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. The assessment will evaluate the availability of preventative care services, including mammograms and breast exams, offered by local PCPs. The analysis will also investigate the ease of scheduling appointments, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of after-hours care. These factors directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and comprehensive breast cancer screening and initial care.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves examining patient reviews, analyzing physician qualifications and certifications, and evaluating the practice's commitment to patient education and support. Practices that actively participate in breast cancer awareness campaigns, offer patient navigation services, or have a dedicated breast health specialist will receive higher scores. The analysis will also consider the practice's integration with local hospitals and specialists for seamless referrals and coordinated care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. The analysis will assess the availability of telemedicine services for primary care consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who live far from medical facilities or have mobility limitations. The assessment will consider the type of telemedicine platforms used, the ease of use for patients, and the availability of technical support.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community. It will also assess the integration of mental health services into the primary care setting, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists. Practices that offer support groups, educational resources, or partnerships with mental health organizations will receive higher scores.

Creating a "Breast Cancer Score" requires assigning weighted values to each of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of preventative care, and the quality of primary care services will be assigned the highest weights. Telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources will also contribute significantly to the overall score. The final score will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care available in Cedar Run.

The analysis will consider the impact of any local hospitals or specialized cancer centers located within a reasonable driving distance of ZIP code 17727. These facilities often provide specialized breast cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical services, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The analysis will assess the accessibility of these facilities, the quality of their services, and their integration with local primary care practices. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within the region can significantly improve the overall breast cancer score.

The assessment will also consider the availability of support services for breast cancer patients, such as patient navigators, support groups, and educational resources. These services can help patients navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Practices that offer or refer patients to these support services will receive higher scores. The analysis will also assess the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may be struggling with the costs of treatment.

Furthermore, the analysis will evaluate the practices' adherence to national guidelines and best practices for breast cancer screening and treatment. This includes adherence to guidelines for mammography screening, the use of evidence-based treatments, and the provision of comprehensive follow-up care. Practices that consistently meet these standards will receive higher scores. The analysis will also consider the practice's commitment to ongoing quality improvement and patient safety.

The Breast Cancer Score for Cedar Run, PA (ZIP Code 17727) will be a composite measure reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. It will provide a valuable tool for patients seeking care, healthcare providers striving to improve their services, and policymakers working to address healthcare disparities in rural communities. The score will be dynamic, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape over time.

The analysis will conclude with a summary of the findings, highlighting the key strengths and weaknesses of the breast cancer care system in Cedar Run. It will also offer recommendations for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape, empowering patients and providers to work together to improve the quality of breast cancer care in this rural Pennsylvania community.

For a comprehensive visual representation of this data, including physician locations, service availability, and demographic information, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for detailed spatial analysis, enabling a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution in Cedar Run and beyond.