17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.19 percent of the residents in 17866 has some form of health insurance. 33.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.12 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 17866 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17866. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,660 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,825 health care providers accessible to residents in 17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Coal Township, PA (ZIP Code 17866)**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of breast cancer care within the Coal Township, PA (ZIP Code 17866) area, focusing on the availability and quality of services for patients. The assessment considers factors such as physician density, primary care accessibility, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is the availability of qualified medical professionals. Within the confines of ZIP Code 17866, the concentration of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast procedures, and radiologists equipped to interpret mammograms and other imaging studies is crucial. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating a greater number of physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. However, this metric alone doesn't tell the whole story. The specific expertise of these physicians, their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers, and their participation in clinical trials are all vital considerations. The analysis would need to delve into the credentials and specializations of the physicians practicing in the area, assessing their experience and the quality of their training.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a critical role in breast cancer detection and management. They are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or needing routine screenings. The accessibility of PCPs in Coal Township, particularly their availability for appointments and their ability to provide timely referrals to specialists, is a crucial factor. The analysis should consider the number of PCPs per capita, the average wait times for appointments, and the ease with which patients can access these services. Primary care availability is not just about the number of doctors; it also encompasses the support staff, such as nurses and medical assistants, who contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the practice.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, and its adoption in breast cancer care can significantly improve access to specialists, particularly for patients in rural areas. The analysis will assess the availability of telemedicine consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine platforms used, the ease of use for patients, and the availability of technical support. The adoption of telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and potentially lead to earlier diagnoses and more timely treatment.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. The availability of mental health resources is an essential aspect of comprehensive care. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in working with cancer patients. It will also examine the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, and the integration of mental health services within the broader healthcare system. Access to these resources can help patients cope with the psychological challenges of the disease, improving their overall well-being and treatment outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within the Coal Township area is a key objective of this analysis. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate excellence in several areas, including patient satisfaction, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and participation in clinical trials. Practices that offer comprehensive services, such as genetic counseling, survivorship programs, and access to supportive care services, will be given high marks. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, helping to identify practices that prioritize patient-centered care.

The evaluation of breast cancer care in Coal Township must also consider the local hospital and healthcare facilities. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with a dedicated cancer center, including access to advanced imaging technologies, surgical facilities, and radiation therapy, is essential. The analysis will assess the quality of care provided by these facilities, including their accreditation status, patient outcomes, and commitment to continuous improvement. The integration of these facilities with the broader healthcare network, including referrals to specialists and access to clinical trials, is also a critical factor.

The analysis will also consider the availability of financial assistance programs and resources for breast cancer patients. The cost of treatment can be a significant burden, and access to financial support can greatly improve patient outcomes. This includes assessing the availability of grants, insurance coverage, and patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies. The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for navigating the healthcare system, such as patient navigators who can help patients understand their treatment options and access the support they need.

The analysis will strive to provide a comprehensive and nuanced picture of the breast cancer care landscape in Coal Township. It will go beyond simple metrics and delve into the complexities of the healthcare system, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the local services. This will provide valuable information for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, enabling them to make informed decisions and improve the quality of care for breast cancer patients in the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and the availability of support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing you to explore the healthcare landscape in Coal Township and identify areas with the greatest needs.