17744, Linden, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17744, Linden, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.89 percent of the residents in 17744 has some form of health insurance. 43.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.19 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 17744 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 512 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17744. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 653 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,079 health care providers accessible to residents in 17744, Linden, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Linden, PA (ZIP Code 17744)**

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the Linden, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17744) area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) resources and related healthcare infrastructure. This evaluation aims to provide insights into the accessibility and potential quality of care for individuals concerned about breast cancer. The analysis considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support.

The foundation of breast cancer care often lies within the primary care setting. PCPs are typically the first point of contact for patients, conducting initial screenings, providing referrals to specialists, and coordinating overall care. A robust primary care system, therefore, is essential for early detection and effective management of the disease. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in Linden is a critical first step. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and publicly available databases will be used to estimate the number of PCPs practicing within the 17744 ZIP code and compare this to the population of Linden. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could signal potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves examining several key indicators. This includes the availability of comprehensive women’s health services, including routine mammograms and clinical breast exams. Practices that offer on-site mammography or have strong referral networks to local imaging centers demonstrate a commitment to streamlined care. Furthermore, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals is crucial for facilitating communication, sharing medical information, and enabling patients to actively participate in their care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in Linden could dramatically improve access to care, especially for those facing mobility challenges or transportation barriers. Examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient education resources within local practices will be an important part of this evaluation. The ability to conduct initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health therapy sessions remotely can greatly enhance the overall quality of breast cancer care.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis is profound. Access to mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive care. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, in the Linden area. This includes assessing whether local primary care practices offer in-house mental health services or have established referral networks to mental health providers. Additionally, the presence of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources that help patients cope with the emotional challenges of the disease will be considered.

Evaluating specific practices within the 17744 ZIP code requires a nuanced approach. Identifying "standout" practices involves looking beyond basic service offerings. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, evidence-based medicine, and continuous quality improvement are particularly noteworthy. This can be assessed by examining patient reviews, the practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives, and its adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment. It is important to note that this analysis is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.

The availability of specialized care, such as oncology and surgical services, is also a critical factor. While primary care is the foundation, the ability to access specialized expertise is essential for advanced diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will consider the proximity of Linden to regional cancer centers and hospitals that offer comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes assessing the availability of medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists involved in the treatment of breast cancer.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of supportive services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nutritional counseling. These services play a vital role in helping patients manage the side effects of treatment, improve their quality of life, and promote overall well-being. The presence of these resources within the local healthcare ecosystem is an important indicator of the comprehensiveness of care available in Linden.

The analysis will also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the local healthcare system. This includes assessing the prevalence of breast cancer risk factors, such as age, family history, and ethnicity, within the Linden community. Understanding these demographic factors can help identify potential disparities in care and inform strategies to improve access to screening and treatment for all residents.

Data sources for this analysis will include the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and publicly available physician directories. Patient reviews and online resources will also be consulted to gather information about the quality of care provided by local practices. It is important to note that the availability and accuracy of data may vary, and the analysis will be based on the most current information available at the time of the assessment.

This analysis is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in Linden, PA. The insights gained from this analysis can be used to inform healthcare decisions, identify areas for improvement, and advocate for better access to care for individuals in the community. The goal is to create a more informed and empowered healthcare environment.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Linden and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed geospatial data and mapping tools to help you visualize healthcare access and make informed decisions about your health.