17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.68 percent of the residents in 17812 has some form of health insurance. 44.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.34 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 17812 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 427 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17812. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 341 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 616 health care providers accessible to residents in 17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer care within the 17812 ZIP code, encompassing Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania, requires a comprehensive evaluation, moving beyond simple physician counts. This analysis delves into the nuances of care, examining physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in a patient's journey. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Beaver Springs, specifically for primary care physicians (PCPs), is a critical starting point. A low ratio can lead to appointment delays, reduced time per patient, and overall diminished access to care. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local hospital systems are essential to ascertain the exact figures. The analysis must consider not only the number of PCPs but also their capacity, including the number of patients they currently serve and their appointment scheduling practices. Furthermore, the age distribution of the population within the ZIP code influences demand; an older population, for example, might require more frequent check-ups and screenings.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves looking beyond the basic metrics and examining factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment, and the availability of specialized services. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care. The presence of on-site mammography services, access to breast cancer specialists (oncologists, surgeons), and the availability of genetic counseling are also important indicators of a practice's ability to address the specific needs of breast cancer patients.

The integration of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Beaver Springs. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and mental health services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to serve patients. This analysis should assess the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use of the platforms, and the availability of technical support for patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology, is crucial. This analysis should assess the availability of these resources, including whether practices have on-site mental health providers or partnerships with external mental health organizations. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including screening for depression and anxiety, is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Primary care availability in Beaver Springs is intrinsically linked to the overall quality of breast cancer care. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventive care, screening recommendations, and referrals to specialists. A robust primary care system is essential for early detection and timely intervention. The analysis must evaluate the availability of PCPs, their appointment scheduling practices, and their ability to coordinate care with specialists. The presence of patient navigators, who can assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, is also a valuable asset.

Specific examples of standout practices within the 17812 ZIP code would be identified by looking at their patient satisfaction scores, their adherence to established guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment, and their integration of telemedicine and mental health services. A practice that has a high patient satisfaction rate, offers on-site mammography, provides access to breast cancer specialists, and has a strong telemedicine program would be considered a standout. The analysis would seek to identify and highlight these practices, providing examples of best practices that other practices can emulate.

The challenges faced by healthcare providers in Beaver Springs are also considered. These might include limited access to specialists, the need for improved coordination of care, and the challenges of attracting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals. The analysis will identify these challenges and suggest potential solutions, such as partnerships with larger healthcare systems, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the implementation of patient-centered care models.

The availability of support groups and educational resources for breast cancer patients is another important factor. These resources can provide patients with emotional support, practical information, and a sense of community. The analysis will assess the availability of these resources, including support groups, educational materials, and online resources. The presence of patient navigators, who can assist patients in accessing these resources, is also a valuable asset.

The analysis also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors on breast cancer care. These factors can include income, education, and access to transportation. Patients with lower incomes or limited access to transportation may face barriers to accessing care. The analysis will identify these barriers and suggest potential solutions, such as financial assistance programs and transportation services.

The overall goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care in the 17812 ZIP code. This will involve a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The analysis will also identify challenges and suggest potential solutions.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Beaver Springs and beyond, consider utilizing the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Explore physician locations, facility types, and resource availability in a dynamic and informative way.