17834, Kulpmont, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17834, Kulpmont, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.66 percent of the residents in 17834 has some form of health insurance. 35.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.34 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 17834 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 654 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17834. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 749 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,507 health care providers accessible to residents in 17834, Kulpmont, Pennsylvania.

The assessment of breast cancer care within ZIP code 17834, encompassing the town of Kulpmont, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates evaluating the availability and quality of primary care, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, and the accessibility of supporting resources. A 'Breast Cancer Score' is not a standardized metric, but rather a composite judgment based on various factors, offering a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, ultimately aiming to provide residents with a clearer perspective on their healthcare options.

Primary care forms the bedrock of breast cancer detection and management. Regular checkups and screenings are vital for early identification. In Kulpmont, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the 'Breast Cancer Score.' A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening rates, and ultimately, a poorer prognosis for breast cancer patients. The analysis needs to consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, the patient population size, and the average wait times for appointments. Access to a PCP who is proactive in breast cancer screening, including mammograms and clinical breast exams, is paramount.

Standout practices within the area contribute significantly to the overall 'Breast Cancer Score.' These are healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in various aspects of breast cancer care. This includes the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of small cancers. The presence of board-certified radiologists specializing in breast imaging is another key factor. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive breast cancer services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology, would significantly enhance the score. These practices should also have established relationships with local hospitals and cancer centers, ensuring seamless referrals and coordinated care. The evaluation should also consider patient satisfaction surveys, which provide insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in enhancing healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Kulpmont. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The 'Breast Cancer Score' benefits from practices that offer telemedicine consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations. The availability of remote monitoring devices, which allow patients to track their health metrics and share them with their healthcare providers, can also improve the score. Practices that proactively utilize telemedicine can improve the overall quality of care and patient convenience, leading to a higher score.

Mental health support is an integral part of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health resources is crucial for patients' well-being. The 'Breast Cancer Score' is positively impacted by the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. Practices that offer support groups, individual therapy, and access to psychiatric services contribute significantly to the score. The integration of mental health services within the cancer care pathway, ensuring patients receive the support they need throughout their journey, is essential.

The availability of resources like patient navigators, who help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, is another factor. Patient navigators assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, and accessing financial assistance programs. The presence of these resources can improve the patient experience and reduce the burden of managing their care.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is also influenced by community outreach and education programs. Practices that actively engage in breast cancer awareness campaigns, offer educational materials, and participate in community events contribute to a higher score. These activities help to raise awareness about breast cancer, promote early detection, and provide valuable information to the community.

In Kulpmont, the absence of a major hospital or cancer center within the ZIP code necessitates an evaluation of the referral pathways to nearby facilities. The analysis must assess the ease of access to these facilities, including travel times and transportation options. The presence of transportation services for patients, such as volunteer drivers or partnerships with local organizations, can significantly improve the 'Breast Cancer Score.'

Evaluating the overall healthcare infrastructure in Kulpmont is critical. This includes assessing the availability of diagnostic services, such as mammography and biopsy, within the area. The presence of these services reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for testing, improving their convenience and access to care. The quality of the equipment and the expertise of the technicians performing these procedures also impact the score.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. Regular updates and reevaluations are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the evolving needs of the community. The analysis needs to consider the integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs), which can improve communication and coordination of care. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can improve the efficiency of their operations and the quality of care they provide.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Kulpmont, 17834, is likely influenced by its rural nature and the potential for limited resources. However, the presence of dedicated practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support can significantly improve the score. The analysis should consider the overall healthcare ecosystem, including the availability of specialists, the quality of diagnostic services, and the ease of access to care.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Kulpmont and surrounding areas, including physician locations, service availability, and patient demographics, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations that can help you understand the healthcare resources available in your community and make informed decisions about your healthcare.