17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17730 has some form of health insurance. 78.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 21.57 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 17730 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 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17730. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 40 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,174 health care providers accessible to residents in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17730 & Dewart, PA

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 17730, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a critical component of early detection and management. The analysis also considers the specific needs of the Dewart, PA community, assessing its access to healthcare resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, evaluating key factors influencing patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. Regular screenings, patient education, and timely referrals are all initiated by primary care physicians. Within ZIP code 17730, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially delay care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can be utilized to estimate this ratio. It’s important to note that the exact figures are dynamic and require constant updating.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are physicians up-to-date on current breast cancer screening guidelines, including mammography recommendations based on age and risk factors? Do they offer comprehensive patient education about self-exams and lifestyle choices that can reduce risk? Assessing these factors requires examining the practices of local primary care providers.

Identifying standout practices within 17730 is essential. These practices might excel in areas like patient communication, offering extended hours, or providing specialized services. This involves examining patient reviews, analyzing the services offered, and assessing the integration of technology to enhance patient care. For example, a practice that actively uses electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient screening histories and send timely reminders could be considered exemplary.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Does the primary care infrastructure in 17730 support virtual consultations for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and even initial consultations? The availability of telemedicine can be a significant advantage in ensuring timely access to care, especially in the context of breast cancer screening and follow-up.

The mental health component of breast cancer care is often overlooked but is undeniably crucial. A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the 17730 area is a key consideration. Does the local primary care network have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Are there local support groups specifically for breast cancer patients? These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of care.

Focusing specifically on Dewart, PA, a more granular assessment of primary care availability is required. Dewart's proximity to larger towns and cities should be considered. The availability of transportation options, such as public transit or ride-sharing services, is crucial for accessing care. The distance to the nearest primary care facilities, the types of services offered, and the acceptance of various insurance plans all impact access.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the Dewart community. Are there specific populations within Dewart that might face additional barriers to accessing care, such as those with limited English proficiency or those with low incomes? Understanding these factors is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the community.

The quality of the local hospitals and specialty clinics is another critical factor. Are there any hospitals or clinics within a reasonable distance that offer comprehensive breast cancer services, including mammography, biopsies, and surgical options? The availability of these services is essential for ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment. The accreditation status of these facilities, reflecting their commitment to quality and safety, is also important.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for 17730 and the Dewart area should reflect a composite of these factors. The score should not only reflect the availability of resources but also the quality of those resources and the accessibility of care for all residents. A higher score would indicate a more robust healthcare infrastructure that supports early detection, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment for breast cancer.

The final score would be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weights assigned to each factor should reflect their relative importance in influencing patient outcomes. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted heavily, while the availability of telemedicine might be weighted slightly less. The score should also be dynamic, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape over time.

This analysis provides a framework for assessing the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 17730 and the Dewart area. It highlights the importance of primary care, telemedicine, mental health resources, and the overall quality and accessibility of care. The insights gained from this analysis can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for policies that support better breast cancer outcomes.

To visualize and understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care physicians, hospitals, and support services, within the 17730 ZIP code and the Dewart area, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and to better understand the challenges faced by patients. Explore the power of spatial data analysis with CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.