17827, Freeburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17827, Freeburg, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.94 percent of the residents in 17827 has some form of health insurance. 41.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.83 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 17827 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 161 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17827. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 247 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,969 health care providers accessible to residents in 17827, Freeburg, Pennsylvania.

This analysis focuses on assessing the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 17827, specifically evaluating the quality and accessibility of services for patients in and around Freeburg, Pennsylvania. The analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, informing both patients and healthcare providers about the strengths and weaknesses of the current system.

Freeburg, and the surrounding ZIP code 17827, is a rural area. This geographical reality significantly impacts healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. A robust primary care network serves as the first line of defense, providing preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is vital. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Data on this ratio, ideally specific to the area, is essential for a complete evaluation. This data should be gathered from reliable sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, and should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the local healthcare workforce.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. Are PCPs actively promoting breast cancer screening guidelines? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient history and ensure timely follow-up? Are they well-versed in the latest advancements in breast cancer detection and treatment? The presence of a strong, well-informed primary care network is the foundation upon which effective breast cancer care is built.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. These practices, often characterized by a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive screening programs, and advanced diagnostic capabilities, can serve as models for other providers. Evaluating these practices involves considering factors such as the experience and expertise of the physicians, the availability of on-site mammography or access to rapid referral for imaging, and the overall patient experience. Patient reviews and feedback are invaluable in this process. The practices that consistently receive positive feedback, demonstrating a commitment to compassionate care and excellent clinical outcomes, should be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical consideration, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive consultations without having to travel long distances. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment can significantly improve access to care. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption involves assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing healthcare systems. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving patient access and convenience.

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 mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is essential for helping patients cope with the challenges of their illness. Assessing the integration of mental health resources involves evaluating the availability of on-site or referral-based mental health services, the training of healthcare providers in addressing the psychological needs of cancer patients, and the overall awareness of mental health issues within the healthcare system. Practices that prioritize mental health support demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized breast cancer services, such as surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, is essential. The presence of these specialists within the area, or the ease of access to them through referral networks, is a key indicator of the quality of care. The analysis should consider the experience and expertise of these specialists, the availability of advanced treatment options, and the overall coordination of care among different specialists.

The analysis must also consider the role of patient education and support programs. Breast cancer patients often benefit from access to educational materials, support groups, and resources that can help them navigate their diagnosis and treatment. The availability of these programs, whether offered by healthcare providers, community organizations, or national cancer societies, can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in and around Freeburg, Pennsylvania. This assessment should be based on reliable data, objective criteria, and a focus on the needs of patients. By identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, this analysis can inform efforts to enhance the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the region. The dynamic nature of healthcare requires that this analysis be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare workforce, technological advancements, and evolving patient needs.

This analysis, while providing a snapshot of the current situation, can be significantly enhanced through the use of mapping and visualization tools. CartoChrome maps, for example, can be used to visually represent the distribution of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and the demographics of the patient population. This visual representation can provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the healthcare system in Freeburg and the surrounding areas.