17815, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17815, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.92 percent of the residents in 17815 has some form of health insurance. 30.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.10 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 17815 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,012 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17815. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,598 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,704 health care providers accessible to residents in 17815, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Bloomsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17815)**

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17815), focusing on factors relevant to breast cancer care. It considers physician availability, access to primary care, the presence of innovative practices, and the integration of mental health support, all within the context of providing a "Breast Cancer Score." This score is not a single, quantifiable number but rather a holistic assessment reflecting the community's preparedness to address breast cancer concerns.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. In Bloomsburg, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial metric. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is the first step. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, could potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, which includes breast cancer screenings. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau would be essential to determine the current ratio accurately. This ratio is a key indicator of access.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is important. Are practices concentrated in certain areas, potentially leaving some residents with limited access? Are there underserved populations within the ZIP code? The physical accessibility of practices, considering factors like public transportation and the availability of parking, is also a consideration.

The quality of primary care also factors into the score. Does the community have any standout practices? Practices known for their patient-centered care, proactive screening programs, and strong relationships with specialists are highly valued. These practices often champion early detection, which is critical for successful breast cancer treatment. Identifying these practices requires gathering information from patient reviews, local community feedback, and potentially, data from health insurance providers.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key aspect of the assessment. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for those who may face transportation challenges or live in rural areas. The availability of virtual consultations for primary care and specialist referrals can be a major advantage. The “Breast Cancer Score” would consider the extent to which local physicians utilize telemedicine platforms, including their ease of use, patient satisfaction, and the types of services offered virtually.

Specialist availability is another key component of the score. The presence of oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and other specialists within or near Bloomsburg is essential. The proximity of these specialists to the community reduces the burden on patients and facilitates timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis should identify the number of specialists, their areas of expertise, and their affiliations with local hospitals or cancer centers.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Does the local healthcare system offer integrated mental health services? Are there partnerships between primary care practices, oncology centers, and mental health providers? The analysis will consider the availability of these resources and their accessibility to patients.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also takes into account the presence of support services for breast cancer patients. These services can include patient navigators, who help patients navigate the healthcare system; financial assistance programs; and support groups that provide emotional support and peer-to-peer learning. The availability of these services can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes.

The role of local hospitals and cancer centers is also important. The quality of care provided by these institutions, their accreditation status, and their commitment to research and innovation are all factors. The analysis would examine the facilities’ capabilities, including their equipment, staffing, and the range of treatments offered.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not static; it is a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and best practices emerging. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are necessary to ensure that the community's healthcare resources are meeting the needs of breast cancer patients.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Bloomsburg (ZIP code 17815) would be a reflection of a complex interplay of factors. It would consider physician availability, primary care quality, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, support services, and the capabilities of local hospitals and cancer centers. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the community's readiness to address breast cancer concerns and to identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Bloomsburg and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.