17754, Montoursville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17754, Montoursville, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.64 percent of the residents in 17754 has some form of health insurance. 34.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.09 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 17754 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,658 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17754. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,453 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,040 health care providers accessible to residents in 17754, Montoursville, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Montoursville, PA (ZIP Code 17754)

Analyzing the availability of quality breast cancer care within Montoursville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17754) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into several crucial areas, including physician availability, primary care access, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for the region. This score, while not a definitive numerical value, will reflect the overall strength and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure in supporting individuals facing breast cancer.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system rests upon the availability of qualified physicians. In Montoursville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. Determining this accurately requires analyzing the number of oncologists, radiologists specializing in breast imaging, surgeons with breast cancer expertise, and primary care physicians (PCPs) within the specified ZIP code. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for specialists, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer patient outcomes. This analysis must also consider the proximity of specialists in neighboring areas, such as Williamsport, and the ease of travel for residents.

Standout practices within Montoursville and the surrounding areas will be identified based on several factors. These include the presence of comprehensive breast cancer centers, accreditation by reputable organizations (e.g., the American College of Surgeons), and the utilization of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Practices that offer multidisciplinary care, bringing together oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists to collaborate on patient treatment plans, are highly desirable. Reviews and testimonials from patients, reflecting their experiences with the care received, will also play a crucial role in the evaluation.

The accessibility of primary care is paramount. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for patients, providing crucial preventative care, including breast cancer screenings. A strong primary care network in Montoursville, with readily available appointments and a focus on preventative medicine, is essential for early detection. The analysis will investigate the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate information sharing and coordination of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care via video calls, and access educational resources online can greatly improve patient convenience and access to care, especially for those living in rural areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered remotely and the ease of use for patients. Practices that offer telehealth options are likely to receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology and can provide support to patients and their families is vital. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services in Montoursville, including the presence of oncology-specific support groups, the availability of individual therapy, and the integration of mental health services within the overall care plan.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Montoursville will be a composite assessment, taking into account all of the above factors. A high score will reflect a robust healthcare infrastructure with a high physician-to-patient ratio, readily available primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, a focus on mental health, and a commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. A lower score will indicate areas where improvements are needed, such as addressing physician shortages, increasing access to mental health services, or expanding the use of telemedicine.

The analysis will also consider the impact of insurance coverage on access to care. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices, including Medicare and Medicaid, is crucial for ensuring that all residents, regardless of their financial situation, can access the care they need. The analysis will investigate the availability of financial assistance programs and the efforts of local practices to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

Furthermore, the analysis will examine the impact of social determinants of health on breast cancer outcomes. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural beliefs can all influence a patient's ability to access care and adhere to treatment plans. The analysis will consider these factors and assess the efforts of local practices to address health disparities and provide culturally competent care.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Montoursville, PA (ZIP code 17754) is a complex undertaking. This analysis, by examining physician availability, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape. The ultimate goal is to identify strengths and weaknesses, offering insights into how the community can improve its breast cancer care infrastructure and provide better support to those affected by this disease.

To visualize the data and gain a clearer understanding of the healthcare landscape in Montoursville and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the use of interactive mapping tools. Consider utilizing CartoChrome maps to visualize physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data points. This visual representation can greatly enhance your understanding of the area and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.