17742, Lairdsville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17742, Lairdsville, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17742 has some form of health insurance. 79.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.31 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 17742 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17742. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 15 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,372 health care providers accessible to residents in 17742, Lairdsville, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17742 and Primary Care Availability in Lairdsville**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 17742, encompassing Lairdsville, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. We will assess the availability of primary care physicians, their capacity to facilitate early detection, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, and the overall support system for patients. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in relation to breast cancer care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer management lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Lairdsville, a small community within ZIP code 17742, presents a unique challenge. Rural areas often experience shortages of primary care physicians, impacting access to routine screenings, patient education, and timely referrals. Physician-to-patient ratios are critical. A higher ratio indicates a greater burden on each physician, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized attention. Data on physician density within the ZIP code is essential for a complete assessment.

Evaluating primary care availability requires investigating the number of practicing physicians, their specialties, and their patient load. This includes family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and any other providers who offer primary care services. Furthermore, the analysis must consider the geographic distribution of these physicians. Are they clustered in one area, or are they spread out to serve the wider community? Accessibility also encompasses factors like transportation options, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

Early detection is paramount in breast cancer treatment. Primary care physicians play a vital role in this process. They should be actively promoting and facilitating breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, according to established guidelines. This includes educating patients about the importance of regular screenings, scheduling appointments, and ensuring follow-up care for any abnormal findings. The analysis should assess the extent to which primary care providers in the area are adhering to these best practices.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized breast cancer services is crucial. This includes access to radiologists for mammograms and other imaging tests, oncologists for diagnosis and treatment, surgeons for biopsies and surgical interventions, and radiation oncologists for radiation therapy. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable distance is a significant factor in the quality of care. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can negatively impact patient outcomes.

The analysis should also explore the availability of support services. Breast cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally demanding. Patients often require assistance with managing side effects, coping with anxiety and depression, and navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. This includes support groups, counseling services, and resources for financial assistance. The presence of these resources, and their accessibility to patients in the area, is an important indicator of the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address some of the challenges of rural healthcare. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The analysis should investigate the adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers, specifically in the context of breast cancer care. Are physicians utilizing telehealth for consultations, follow-up appointments, or patient education?

Mental health support is an integral component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The analysis should assess the availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, in the area. Are these resources accessible to patients, and are they integrated into the overall care plan?

Standout practices within the ZIP code should be highlighted. These are healthcare providers or facilities that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This could include practices that have implemented innovative screening programs, adopted advanced treatment techniques, or provided exceptional patient support. Identifying these standout practices can help to identify best practices and provide models for other providers to emulate.

The analysis should also consider the presence of patient navigators. Patient navigators are healthcare professionals who assist patients in navigating the healthcare system. They can help patients schedule appointments, understand their treatment options, and access support services. The availability of patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience and ensure that patients receive the care they need.

Furthermore, the analysis should explore the community's awareness of breast cancer and its prevention. This includes examining the availability of educational materials, community outreach programs, and awareness campaigns. A well-informed community is more likely to participate in screening programs and seek early medical attention.

The overall goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 17742. The findings will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, identify areas for improvement, and provide insights for patients seeking care. The analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental-health resources. The final report should offer actionable recommendations to improve breast cancer care in the area.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lairdsville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, service availability, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for understanding the spatial dimensions of healthcare access and planning.