17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.51 percent of the residents in 17876 has some form of health insurance. 43.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.50 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 17876 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 382 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17876. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 422 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,793 health care providers accessible to residents in 17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania.

This analysis examines breast cancer care within ZIP Code 17876, focusing on Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania, and its primary care resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern technologies like telemedicine. We will also explore the availability of mental health resources, crucial for patients navigating the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis aims to offer a comprehensive overview, recognizing that healthcare is a constantly evolving field.

The foundation of any healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Shamokin Dam, assessing primary care availability is the first step in evaluating breast cancer care access. This includes evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per patient, generally suggests better access to care. However, this metric alone doesn't tell the whole story. Factors like the age and health of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the geographic distribution of physicians all influence the practical availability of primary care. A high physician-to-patient ratio might be misleading if those physicians are concentrated in a single practice or are not accepting new patients.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is critical. This involves examining the practices themselves. Are they patient-centered? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have integrated electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate communication between specialists? These factors directly impact the patient experience and the efficiency of care delivery. Practices that embrace technology, such as patient portals for appointment scheduling and test result access, often demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive health management.

For breast cancer care, primary care physicians play a vital role in early detection and screening. They are often the first point of contact for patients, providing education about breast health, recommending mammograms, and coordinating referrals to specialists if necessary. Therefore, a strong primary care infrastructure is essential for ensuring timely diagnosis and intervention.

In the context of breast cancer, the availability of specialists is also critical. This includes oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists. The presence of these specialists within or near ZIP Code 17876 is a key indicator of the community's ability to provide comprehensive breast cancer care. The proximity of these specialists can significantly impact patient outcomes, particularly in time-sensitive situations.

Examining specific practices within the area offers valuable insights. While a comprehensive list is beyond the scope of this analysis, identifying standout practices is possible through research. Practices that consistently receive positive patient reviews, demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, and offer a range of services are often considered leaders in their field. These practices may have dedicated breast cancer programs, offering specialized care and support services. Investigating the affiliations of these practices with hospitals or larger healthcare systems can also provide insight into the resources available to patients.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare, and its adoption in breast cancer care is noteworthy. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists, particularly for those in rural areas. It can also facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even support groups. The degree to which practices in ZIP Code 17876 have embraced telemedicine is an important factor in evaluating the overall quality of care. Practices that offer telemedicine options demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The mental health of breast cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it is a critical component of their overall well-being. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore essential. Examining the presence of these resources within the community is crucial. This includes assessing whether primary care practices have integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community for patients.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the availability of resources can change. This analysis provides a snapshot of the situation within ZIP Code 17876, recognizing that the information presented may need to be updated over time. The best way to gain the most current information is to directly contact the practices in the area and ask questions.

The assessment of breast cancer care in Shamokin Dam and ZIP Code 17876 requires a multifaceted approach. The physician-to-patient ratio is just one piece of the puzzle. The quality of primary care, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all crucial factors. By considering these elements, we can gain a more complete understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape in Shamokin Dam and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you to visually analyze the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.