17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.27 percent of the residents in 17768 has some form of health insurance. 45.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.40 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 17768 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 56 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17768. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 57 health care providers accessible to residents in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania.

This analysis focuses on assessing breast cancer care quality and primary care accessibility within the specific geographic parameters of ZIP code 17768 (likely encompassing the area around Williamsport, PA) and the small community of Shunk, PA. The evaluation considers factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all within the context of breast cancer care. This is a hypothetical assessment, as a real-world "Breast Cancer Score" does not exist in this format.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. In ZIP code 17768, a thorough analysis would require data on the number of primary care physicians, oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists specializing in breast health, compared to the estimated population. A higher ratio of specialists per capita generally suggests better access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Conversely, a low ratio could indicate potential delays in appointments, increased travel distances for patients, and overall strain on the healthcare system. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau would be essential for this calculation.

For Shunk, the situation is likely different. Being a smaller, more rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is expected to be significantly lower, potentially even nonexistent for specialized breast cancer care. Residents of Shunk would likely need to travel to larger towns like Williamsport (ZIP code 17768) for comprehensive care. This underscores the critical importance of primary care availability in Shunk, as it serves as the initial point of contact and referral for any health concerns, including the early detection of breast cancer.

Examining standout practices in ZIP code 17768 involves evaluating their infrastructure, the scope of services offered, and patient outcomes. This would involve assessing the presence of comprehensive breast centers, which ideally include mammography, ultrasound, biopsies, surgical services, radiation oncology, and medical oncology all under one roof. The accreditation status of these centers (e.g., by the American College of Surgeons) would be a significant factor, indicating adherence to established quality standards. Patient reviews, outcomes data (such as survival rates), and the availability of support services like patient navigators and support groups would also be key considerations.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for rural populations and during times of crisis. The ability for patients in Shunk to consult with specialists in Williamsport or elsewhere via telehealth can significantly reduce travel burdens and improve access to care. The assessment would consider the availability of telemedicine appointments for consultations, follow-up visits, and potentially even remote monitoring. The ease of use of the telemedicine platforms, the training provided to both patients and providers, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care workflow are all crucial factors.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The assessment would investigate the availability of mental health services, such as therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, within the practices and hospitals serving ZIP code 17768. Ideally, these services should be integrated into the care pathway, with easy access and referrals for patients. The availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients is particularly valuable, offering a space for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support.

In Shunk, access to mental health resources is likely even more limited. The assessment would need to consider the availability of telehealth options for mental health services, as well as the potential for collaboration with mental health providers in neighboring communities. The primary care physician in Shunk plays a vital role in identifying and addressing mental health needs, and their access to resources and referral networks is crucial.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 17768 would be a composite measure, reflecting the quality of care across all the assessed dimensions. A high score would indicate excellent access to care, high-quality services, and robust support systems. A lower score would highlight areas for improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, or a lack of mental health resources.

The primary care availability in Shunk would be a separate but related assessment. A high score would reflect the presence of accessible primary care, strong referral networks, and the ability of the primary care physician to provide comprehensive care, including early detection and management of breast cancer risk factors. A lower score would indicate limited access to primary care, potentially hindering early detection and timely referrals.

To visualize and understand these complex geographical and healthcare dynamics, consider the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can transform raw data into interactive, insightful visualizations. They can map physician locations, practice locations, patient demographics, and other relevant factors, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of access to care and identifying potential disparities. They can also be used to visualize the impact of telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources across different geographic areas.

Ready to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and outcomes in your community? Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps.