17870, Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17870, Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.67 percent of the residents in 17870 has some form of health insurance. 30.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.27 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 17870 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,752 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17870. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,797 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,926 health care providers accessible to residents in 17870, Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania.

Analyzing breast cancer care within ZIP code 17870, specifically focusing on Selinsgrove, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider factors impacting early detection, treatment access, and overall patient well-being. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the current landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

One critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) to the population generally indicates better access to preventative care, including breast cancer screenings. In Selinsgrove, we need to determine the precise number of PCPs actively practicing within the 17870 ZIP code and compare that to the total population. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can provide the raw numbers. A low ratio may necessitate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio, while positive, does not guarantee optimal care.

The availability of specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, is equally important. Breast cancer treatment is often a multidisciplinary effort. Analyzing the number of oncologists and radiologists practicing within a reasonable radius of Selinsgrove is essential. Are these specialists readily accessible, or do patients need to travel significant distances for consultations and treatments? The proximity to larger medical centers, such as those in nearby cities, will also play a role. A lack of local specialists can significantly impact patient convenience and potentially delay timely interventions.

Standout practices within Selinsgrove should be identified. These practices may excel in patient education, utilize cutting-edge screening technologies, or offer comprehensive support services. Researching local practices involves reviewing online patient reviews, examining their websites, and, if possible, contacting them directly to inquire about their breast cancer care protocols. Do they offer mammograms on-site? Do they provide patient navigators to guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment? Do they actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer? Identifying practices with a strong commitment to patient-centered care is crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly relevant. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and preliminary discussions, can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms is essential. Do they offer virtual appointments? Do they have secure systems for sharing medical records electronically? The integration of telemedicine can significantly enhance the efficiency and convenience of breast cancer care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are critical for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or have experience supporting cancer patients is vital. Are these resources readily accessible within Selinsgrove, or do patients need to seek support elsewhere? The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide invaluable emotional support.

The availability of patient education materials and resources is another factor to consider. Do local practices provide patients with clear, concise information about breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment options? Are educational materials available in multiple languages, if necessary? Do they offer resources on financial assistance and support services? Patient empowerment through education is a key component of effective breast cancer care.

Furthermore, the presence of support programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, can enhance the quality of care. These programs often provide financial assistance, transportation services, and other forms of support to patients. Assessing the awareness of these programs among local practices and the extent to which they are utilized by patients is important.

Another crucial aspect is the level of collaboration and communication between different healthcare providers. Is there effective communication between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare professionals involved in a patient's care? Do they utilize shared electronic health records to ensure seamless information sharing? Effective communication is essential for coordinating care and ensuring that patients receive the best possible treatment.

Finally, we must evaluate the overall community awareness of breast cancer. Are there local initiatives to raise awareness about breast cancer screening and early detection? Are there opportunities for community members to learn about breast cancer risk factors and prevention strategies? A community that is well-informed about breast cancer is more likely to take proactive steps to protect their health.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care in Selinsgrove (ZIP code 17870) involves a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community awareness. While this analysis provides a framework for understanding the current landscape, it is essential to conduct further research and gather more detailed data to gain a complete picture.

For a dynamic and visual representation of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data points within the 17870 ZIP code and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. They provide an interactive platform for visualizing complex data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and aiding in informed decision-making.