17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.07 percent of the residents in 17813 has some form of health insurance. 42.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.62 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 17813 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 542 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17813. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 410 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 629 health care providers accessible to residents in 17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 17813, specifically in and around Beavertown, Pennsylvania. This involves assessing primary care physician (PCP) availability, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and the overall landscape of breast cancer services. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the healthcare infrastructure accessible to residents, particularly concerning early detection, diagnosis, and support for breast cancer patients.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible primary care. In Beavertown, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per PCP, could potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less personalized attention. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility for routine checkups, screenings, and initial referrals, which are all vital for early detection. Data on this ratio, including the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the estimated population served, is crucial for a comprehensive assessment. Publicly available databases from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state medical boards can provide this data.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This encompasses factors like the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of preventative services, and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices that prioritize preventative care, such as regular mammogram screenings and patient education, are highly desirable. The existence of a robust EHR system facilitates seamless communication between PCPs and specialists, streamlining the referral process for suspected breast cancer cases. Patient reviews and ratings on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals can offer insights into patient satisfaction and the overall quality of care provided by individual practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to access virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or initial assessments, can greatly enhance convenience and reduce barriers to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. The availability of telemedicine services, including the types of consultations offered (e.g., general check-ups, medication management, mental health counseling), should be assessed. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient accessibility and are often better equipped to provide timely care. Information on telemedicine adoption can be found by reviewing practice websites, contacting the practices directly, or consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet crucial, component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer, and the subsequent treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for providing support and helping patients cope with the psychological challenges of the disease. The availability of these resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a key consideration. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also be beneficial. Information on mental health services can be gathered by researching local hospitals, clinics, and mental health organizations.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is a key objective. This involves evaluating practices based on a combination of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and patient reviews. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, efficient communication, and patient-centered service should be highlighted. This could include practices that have received awards or recognition for their quality of care or patient satisfaction.

The broader healthcare ecosystem in Beavertown plays a role in this assessment. The presence of local hospitals or cancer centers that offer specialized breast cancer services, such as diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and radiation therapy, is essential. Proximity to these facilities and the availability of specialized care within the community can greatly improve patient outcomes. Information on the availability of these services can be found by researching local hospitals and cancer centers.

The analysis should also consider the availability of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be costly, and access to financial resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Information on financial assistance programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or the National Breast Cancer Foundation, should be included.

The assessment of breast cancer care in Beavertown and the surrounding area requires a multi-faceted approach. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall quality of primary care are all essential. Identifying standout practices and assessing the broader healthcare ecosystem, including the availability of specialized services and financial assistance programs, is also important.

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of breast cancer care in ZIP code 17813. By carefully considering these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and access the support they need. This information is vital for patients and healthcare providers alike.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Beavertown and the surrounding areas, including the location of practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. Their interactive platform can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare services and help you identify the resources closest to you.