17865, Potts Grove, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17865, Potts Grove, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17865 has some form of health insurance. 41.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.06 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 17865 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17865. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,501 health care providers accessible to residents in 17865, Potts Grove, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Potts Grove, PA (ZIP Code 17865)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the 17865 ZIP code, focusing on Potts Grove, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a composite assessment reflecting the accessibility and resources available for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing support. This score considers factors like physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health services, all crucial components of comprehensive breast cancer care. The analysis will then provide a call to action to utilize CartoChrome maps for further exploration.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Potts Grove, assessing primary care availability is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can potentially translate to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Data from state and national databases must be consulted to determine the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the 17865 ZIP code. This information is then contextualized. For instance, if the ratio is higher than the state or national average, it suggests a potential strain on the primary care system, which could impact timely referrals for mammograms and other preventative screenings.

The impact of primary care availability extends beyond just access to appointments. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or concerned about their risk. They play a vital role in educating patients about breast cancer risks, recommending appropriate screening schedules based on individual factors (age, family history, etc.), and coordinating care with specialists. A robust primary care network, therefore, is the cornerstone of an effective breast cancer screening and early detection program.

Beyond the general availability of primary care, the specific characteristics of practices within the area are also important. Are there practices that stand out in their commitment to breast health? This requires investigating the services offered. Do practices offer on-site mammography services, or do they have established referral pathways to local imaging centers? The presence of certified breast health navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is another positive indicator.

Furthermore, the adoption of telemedicine within primary care practices significantly impacts accessibility. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, which can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas like Potts Grove, who may face transportation challenges or limited access to specialists. The ability to conduct follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and provide emotional support remotely can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on the healthcare system. The analysis must investigate the extent of telemedicine adoption among local primary care providers.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, but essential, component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common experiences. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is crucial for helping patients cope with the challenges of their diagnosis and treatment. The analysis must identify the availability of these resources within the Potts Grove area. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the availability of specialized mental health services for cancer patients, and the existence of local support groups.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Potts Grove, PA (17865) is a dynamic metric. It will be influenced by the ever-changing landscape of healthcare. The score would consider the following: the PCP-to-patient ratio, the presence of on-site mammography services or established referral pathways, the availability of certified breast health navigators, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Each of these factors would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The overall score would then be calculated based on a combination of these weighted factors.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a comprehensive approach to breast cancer care. This includes not only providing high-quality medical services but also prioritizing patient education, emotional support, and access to resources. Practices that have invested in advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and those that participate in clinical trials are also considered. The analysis would need to identify and highlight these standout practices within the Potts Grove area.

The score will also reflect the challenges faced by the community. Rural areas often experience disparities in healthcare access. The analysis will need to consider any barriers to care, such as transportation limitations, financial constraints, and a lack of insurance coverage. Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring that all residents of Potts Grove have access to the breast cancer care they need.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" is a valuable tool for assessing the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Potts Grove, PA (17865). By considering a range of factors, from physician density to the availability of mental health resources, the score provides a comprehensive picture of the resources available to patients. This analysis highlights the importance of primary care availability, the characteristics of local practices, the role of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and the specific locations of practices, imaging centers, and support services, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of the data, allowing you to explore the landscape of breast cancer care in Potts Grove and identify areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. By using CartoChrome maps, you can gain a more informed perspective and make more effective decisions about your healthcare.