17756, Muncy, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17756, Muncy, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.61 percent of the residents in 17756 has some form of health insurance. 29.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.15 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 17756 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,496 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17756. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,084 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,306 health care providers accessible to residents in 17756, Muncy, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Muncy, PA (ZIP Code 17756)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the Muncy, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17756) area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, informing residents about their access to critical healthcare services.

Muncy, a small borough in Lycoming County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Its rural setting often influences access to specialized medical care, including breast cancer screening and treatment. Evaluating the healthcare infrastructure requires considering the specific challenges faced by the community.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. PCPs are crucial for preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Muncy, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, negatively affects the score. This ratio is calculated by dividing the population of Muncy by the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association, and local hospital systems are essential for accurate assessment.

Limited access to PCPs may lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes. The analysis must assess the average wait times for appointments, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of same-day or urgent care appointments. These factors directly influence the Breast Cancer Score.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices within or near Muncy is vital. This involves examining the quality of care provided by local clinics and hospitals. Factors to consider include the presence of board-certified physicians specializing in breast health, the availability of advanced imaging technology (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), and the accreditation status of the facilities.

For example, practices affiliated with larger hospital systems like UPMC or Geisinger, often have access to greater resources and specialized expertise. Their patient outcomes, as reported by organizations like the National Cancer Institute, are a key factor in determining the Breast Cancer Score. Furthermore, the availability of patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, significantly improves the score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Influence:**

Telemedicine is a critical factor in improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The Breast Cancer Score is directly affected by the extent of telemedicine adoption by local practices. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, provide remote monitoring, and deliver educational resources via telehealth platforms enhances the score.

The analysis must determine which practices offer telemedicine services for breast cancer-related consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions. The ease of use of these platforms, the availability of technical support, and the insurance coverage for telemedicine services are crucial considerations. Telemedicine can significantly reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and enhance access to specialists who may not be readily available in Muncy.

**Mental Health Resources and Breast Cancer Care:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment often have profound psychological impacts. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care, directly affecting the Breast Cancer Score. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Muncy area.

The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, is another key factor. These groups provide emotional support and facilitate information sharing among patients. The analysis should assess whether local hospitals or clinics offer these resources, and if they collaborate with mental health professionals specializing in oncology. The integration of mental health services into the overall breast cancer care plan significantly improves the Breast Cancer Score.

**Overall Breast Cancer Score and Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Muncy (ZIP Code 17756) is determined by synthesizing the data collected across all the above categories. A higher score indicates better access to quality breast cancer care, while a lower score suggests areas needing improvement. The final score will reflect the current state of healthcare infrastructure in the area.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Muncy. It highlights areas where the community excels and areas where improvements are needed. The findings can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents to advocate for better access to breast cancer care.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Muncy and surrounding areas, including the locations of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and potential gaps in care, explore the power of geospatial analysis. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, providing a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care accessibility. Visit CartoChrome to explore the possibilities and visualize the data for yourself.