17857, Northumberland, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17857, Northumberland, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.12 percent of the residents in 17857 has some form of health insurance. 42.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.14 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 17857 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,678 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17857. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,823 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,125 health care providers accessible to residents in 17857, Northumberland, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below assesses the quality of breast cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 17857, encompassing the Northumberland, Pennsylvania area. This evaluation considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician availability, practice features, and the integration of supportive services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement, while considering the unique challenges of a rural setting.

Physician-to-patient ratios form a critical baseline for assessing healthcare access. Within Northumberland County, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely breast cancer screenings, referrals, and ongoing management. The average PCP-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnoses and treatments. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, along with information from the US Census Bureau, will be used to estimate the current ratio. This metric, however, doesn't fully capture the nuances of care. Factors like physician specialization, the number of patients each doctor sees, and the presence of advanced practice providers (APPs) – such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants – also influence accessibility.

The specific practices within 17857 will be scrutinized for their breast cancer care offerings. This includes the presence of board-certified oncologists, radiologists specializing in breast imaging, and surgeons skilled in breast cancer procedures. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is also a critical consideration. Practices that offer comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, including risk assessments and genetic counseling, will be viewed favorably. The accreditation status of these practices by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) further signifies a commitment to quality.

Standout practices will be identified based on their comprehensive approach to breast cancer care. This includes not only the medical aspects but also the provision of supportive services. Practices that offer patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, are particularly valuable. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and rehabilitation programs can significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments, will also be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Northumberland. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational programs will be seen as forward-thinking. The availability of telehealth options can be especially beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling or who live in remote areas. The types of telemedicine platforms used, the ease of access, and the integration with existing electronic health records (EHRs) will be examined.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This includes the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors who specialize in oncology. The integration of mental health services, such as access to support groups, individual therapy, and medication management, will be assessed.

Primary care availability is a key factor in early detection. Regular checkups with a PCP are essential for breast cancer screening and early detection. The number of PCPs, their geographic distribution, and their acceptance of new patients are crucial. Practices that prioritize preventative care and provide patient education on breast cancer risk factors and screening guidelines will be highly regarded. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments for acute illnesses is also important.

The integration of technology in the practice is another consideration. Practices that use EHRs, patient portals, and online scheduling tools can improve efficiency and patient convenience. The ability to access medical records, communicate with providers electronically, and manage appointments online can significantly enhance the patient experience. The use of technology for patient education and communication will also be considered.

The analysis will consider the availability of resources for underserved populations. This includes access to care for patients with limited financial resources, those who are uninsured or underinsured, and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Practices that offer financial assistance programs, translation services, and culturally sensitive care will be viewed favorably. The ability to provide care in multiple languages is also an important consideration.

The overall assessment will consider the coordination of care among different healthcare providers. Practices that collaborate effectively with specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities can provide a more seamless and coordinated experience for patients. The use of referral systems, shared care plans, and regular communication between providers can improve patient outcomes.

The analysis will also evaluate the patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times, the friendliness and responsiveness of staff, and the overall satisfaction of patients with their care. Patient feedback, reviews, and surveys will be considered. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and actively seek feedback for improvement will be recognized.

In conclusion, this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care and primary care availability in the 17857 ZIP code. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice features, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other relevant factors, this assessment will offer a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders. This assessment will be a starting point for further investigation and action.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice locations, and accessibility metrics, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can help you analyze and understand healthcare data in a visually compelling way.