17860, Paxinos, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17860, Paxinos, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.21 percent of the residents in 17860 has some form of health insurance. 32.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.89 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 17860 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 688 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17860. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 497 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,327 health care providers accessible to residents in 17860, Paxinos, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Paxinos, PA (ZIP Code 17860)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within the Paxinos, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17860) area, focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to support patients navigating this challenging disease. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, evaluating factors critical to early detection, treatment, and ongoing support.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care lies in proactive primary care. Regular screenings, early detection, and prompt referrals are vital. In Paxinos, primary care physician (PCP) availability is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a key indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Determining the precise ratio requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau. This data, however, needs to be continuously updated to reflect physician retirements, relocations, and population shifts.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is crucial. Are physicians clustered in specific areas, leaving some residents with limited access? Factors like transportation, especially for those with mobility issues or limited access to vehicles, significantly impact access to care. Analyzing the geographic distribution of primary care practices, along with the demographics of the population they serve, paints a more comprehensive picture of accessibility.

The quality of primary care practices also plays a significant role. Are practices equipped with state-of-the-art mammography equipment? Do they have established protocols for breast cancer screening, including regular reminders and follow-up appointments? Do they readily offer genetic counseling or risk assessments for patients with family histories of breast cancer? These are essential components of a comprehensive approach.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and provide access to specialists and consultations, particularly for those living in rural areas like Paxinos. Evaluating the extent to which local primary care practices utilize telemedicine platforms, and the types of services offered remotely (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management), is critical. Telemedicine's impact on reducing travel time, improving patient convenience, and potentially lowering healthcare costs should be assessed.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked, but it is a critical element of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Paxinos area is essential. Do local practices offer integrated mental health services, or are patients referred to external providers? Are there support groups or other resources available to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of breast cancer?

Identifying standout practices is a key objective. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, early detection, and comprehensive support deserve recognition. This requires looking beyond basic metrics and considering factors like patient satisfaction scores, the availability of bilingual staff, and the practice's commitment to community outreach and education. Practices that proactively engage in patient education, offer support services, and collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure seamless care are particularly valuable.

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers or clinics in the surrounding areas also impacts the quality of care available to Paxinos residents. While the ZIP code itself may not have a dedicated center, the proximity of such facilities, and the ease with which patients can access them, is a significant factor. Assessing the travel time to these centers, the range of services they offer (e.g., surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy), and their affiliation with larger healthcare systems is crucial.

Furthermore, the involvement of local hospitals in breast cancer care needs examination. Do local hospitals have dedicated breast cancer programs, with multidisciplinary teams of specialists? Do they offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy? The quality of care provided by these hospitals, and their ability to coordinate care with primary care physicians and specialists, significantly impacts patient outcomes.

Another aspect to consider is the accessibility of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients struggle to afford the costs of care. Assessing the availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by hospitals, charitable organizations, or government agencies, is essential. Are patients aware of these resources, and are they able to easily access them?

Finally, the role of community organizations in supporting breast cancer patients should be examined. Do local organizations offer support groups, educational programs, or other resources to help patients cope with the disease? The presence of a strong support network can make a significant difference in a patient's quality of life.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Paxinos, PA, requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized breast cancer centers and community support organizations. This comprehensive analysis provides a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem and identifying areas for improvement.