17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.09 percent of the residents in 17850 has some form of health insurance. 62.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.57 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 17850 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 162 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17850. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 175 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,672 health care providers accessible to residents in 17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Montandon, PA (ZIP Code 17850)

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of breast cancer care resources and primary care availability within the Montandon, PA (ZIP Code 17850) area. The goal is to understand the landscape for patients seeking diagnosis, treatment, and support, considering factors that contribute to overall patient outcomes. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized breast cancer care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. It is important to remember that this is a snapshot based on available data and should not be considered a definitive guide.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are crucial. Assessing primary care availability in Montandon requires considering the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally suggests better access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state medical boards can be used to estimate this ratio, but it's important to note that these numbers may vary.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is critical. Are they clustered in one area, or are they spread out to serve the rural population? This distribution impacts access for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Furthermore, the types of services offered by PCPs are relevant. Do they offer basic preventative care, including breast cancer screenings (mammograms), or do they rely on referrals to specialists? The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can also provide primary care, should also be considered.

The quality of primary care is also essential. This encompasses factors such as the length of appointments, the responsiveness of the practice to patient inquiries, and the ability of the practice to coordinate care with specialists. Patient reviews, when available, can offer insights into the patient experience.

Specialized breast cancer care is a critical component of the overall score. This includes the availability of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast cancer, radiation oncologists, and diagnostic imaging centers equipped with advanced technology, such as 3D mammography and MRI. The distance patients must travel to access these specialists is a key factor. Are these specialists located within the ZIP code or in neighboring towns and cities? Travel time and transportation options significantly impact access to care, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

The presence of comprehensive breast cancer centers, which offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, is a significant advantage. These centers typically bring together oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, nurses, and other specialists to provide coordinated care. The availability of support services, such as genetic counseling, physical therapy, and support groups, is also important.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel. This is particularly relevant for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists. The extent to which primary care practices and specialists in the area offer telemedicine services should be assessed. Do they offer virtual appointments, and if so, what is the ease of use and technical support available?

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, and access to mental health support is essential for patient well-being. This includes the availability of therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists specializing in oncology. Are there mental health professionals within the area, and do they accept the same insurance plans as the medical providers? The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable emotional support.

Assessing the quality of care involves evaluating the resources available and the processes used to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. This includes factors such as adherence to national guidelines, the use of patient-reported outcomes, and the availability of clinical trials. Data on patient outcomes, such as survival rates and recurrence rates, can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of care. However, this data is often difficult to obtain at the local level.

In conclusion, evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in Montandon, PA, requires a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, the presence of specialized breast cancer care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of physicians, and the quality of care provided by primary care practices are all essential factors. The availability of specialists, the presence of comprehensive breast cancer centers, and the accessibility of telemedicine services are critical for specialized care. The availability of mental health resources and support groups is also essential for patient well-being. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the current state of breast cancer care in the area.

To gain a more granular understanding of the geographic distribution of these resources and to visualize the factors discussed above, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help visualize the location of physicians, specialists, and support services in relation to the population and other relevant data points. This can provide a more comprehensive and actionable view of the breast cancer care landscape in Montandon, PA.