17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.00 percent of the residents in 17820 has some form of health insurance. 38.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.76 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 17820 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,126 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17820. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,345 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,466 health care providers accessible to residents in 17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are complex, requiring a multifaceted approach. Evaluating healthcare providers and resources within a specific geographic area, like ZIP Code 17820 (Catawissa, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas), necessitates a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis. This analysis considers factors critical to patient care, including physician availability, the presence of specialized practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. This analysis seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for those navigating breast cancer concerns.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Catawissa, assessing primary care availability is paramount. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio (fewer patients per doctor) generally indicates better access and shorter wait times for appointments. Researching the current PCP-to-patient ratio in 17820 and comparing it to state and national averages provides a crucial benchmark. If the ratio is unfavorable, this could indicate a strain on the system, potentially delaying timely screenings and initial consultations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. Are PCPs in the area actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, including oncologists and surgeons? Investigating the practices of individual PCPs, perhaps through patient reviews and practice websites, can reveal insights into their proactive approach to breast cancer prevention and early detection.

Specialized practices within or easily accessible to 17820 are critical. A 'Breast Cancer Score' would reward the presence of dedicated breast cancer centers or clinics. These centers often provide a multidisciplinary approach, housing oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and support staff under one roof. This integrated model streamlines care, improving communication and patient experience. The presence of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI, would also significantly boost the score.

The availability of surgical expertise is another crucial factor. Identifying surgeons specializing in breast cancer surgery, including lumpectomy and mastectomy, is essential. The reputation and experience of these surgeons, as reflected in patient outcomes and peer reviews, are significant indicators of quality care. The presence of reconstructive surgery options, if mastectomy is necessary, also contributes to a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly for rural communities. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists, receive remote monitoring, and access educational resources via telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient convenience. A 'Breast Cancer Score' would give high marks to practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms for patient communication and follow-up.

Mental health support is a critical, often overlooked, component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, specializing in oncology, is a significant factor in a 'Breast Cancer Score'. Does the local healthcare system offer access to these services? Are support groups available? The integration of mental health services within the overall treatment plan is a key indicator of comprehensive care.

The overall quality of a healthcare system is also influenced by the availability of resources. This includes access to support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs. Patient navigators help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing information, and offering emotional support. Financial assistance programs can help patients manage the costs of treatment, which can be substantial. The presence of these resources would improve the 'Breast Cancer Score'.

Analyzing the 'Breast Cancer Score' for doctors in 17820 requires a multi-pronged approach. It starts with the availability and quality of primary care, then considers the presence of specialized breast cancer centers, the expertise of surgeons, and the adoption of telemedicine. Furthermore, the availability of mental health resources and patient support programs plays a crucial role.

The data collection process involves researching physician directories, reviewing practice websites, and analyzing patient reviews. Public health data, such as cancer incidence rates and screening rates, can also provide valuable insights. This data, combined with information on insurance acceptance, wait times, and patient satisfaction, forms the basis of a comprehensive assessment.

The analysis should also consider the geographic accessibility of healthcare providers. While a particular practice may have a high score, its location relative to patients in 17820 is crucial. Travel time and transportation options can significantly impact access to care.

Standout practices in the Catawissa area might include those with a multidisciplinary approach, offering comprehensive breast cancer care under one roof. These practices would likely have a team of specialists, advanced imaging technology, and integrated mental health services. Another standout practice might be one that actively embraces telemedicine, making it easier for patients to receive care and support remotely.

While a thorough 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis for 17820 can offer valuable insights, it's important to remember that healthcare is dynamic. The availability of resources and the quality of care can change over time. It is also important to recognize the limitations of any scoring system. Patient experiences can vary, and individual needs and preferences should always be considered.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 17820, including physician locations, practice specializations, and resource availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer an interactive and visually informative way to understand the healthcare environment, allowing you to identify potential gaps in care and make informed decisions about your health.