17878, Stillwater, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17878, Stillwater, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.10 percent of the residents in 17878 has some form of health insurance. 45.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.65 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 17878 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 287 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17878. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 365 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 643 health care providers accessible to residents in 17878, Stillwater, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Stillwater, PA (ZIP Code 17878)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 17878 (Stillwater, PA) and assesses the broader healthcare landscape relevant to breast cancer patients, focusing on primary care access and related services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Breast Cancer Score” reflecting the community's preparedness to support individuals navigating this challenging diagnosis.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. In Stillwater, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment initiation. Researching the current ratio within 17878, compared to state and national averages, is crucial. This data point, coupled with information on appointment wait times, directly impacts the “access” component of the score. Are appointments readily available, or do patients face significant delays? These factors influence the overall score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This involves evaluating the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening, including mammography recommendations. Do the PCPs actively promote and facilitate regular screenings? Are they well-versed in the latest advancements in early detection and risk assessment? Gathering information on the PCPs' referral patterns to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, is also vital. Efficient and timely referrals are crucial for patients.

Another critical component of the score is the presence of standout practices. Identifying practices that demonstrate exceptional commitment to breast cancer care is important. This involves recognizing those that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive support services, and actively participate in community outreach programs. These practices often serve as models for others and can significantly improve the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is also factored into the analysis. The availability of telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health support, can enhance access to care, especially for patients facing mobility issues or living in remote areas. Assessing the number of practices offering telemedicine options and the types of services available is crucial. Do they offer virtual consultations with specialists? Can patients access remote monitoring programs? The integration of telehealth significantly impacts the overall score.

The mental health aspect of breast cancer care is often overlooked, but it is extremely important. A breast cancer diagnosis can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the community is a key factor. Assessing the number of mental health professionals specializing in oncology-related issues, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is vital. Does the community offer readily accessible mental health support for patients? This directly affects the score.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, financial assistance programs, and transportation services. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access resources. Financial assistance programs can alleviate the burden of medical expenses. Transportation services can ensure that patients can attend appointments and treatments. The presence and accessibility of these support services significantly contribute to the overall score.

The analysis should also incorporate information about local hospitals and cancer centers. Assessing their accreditation status, the availability of specialized breast cancer treatments (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery), and the expertise of their medical staff is essential. Are there comprehensive cancer centers within a reasonable distance, or do patients have to travel long distances for care? This directly impacts the score.

Finally, the analysis should consider the community's overall health and wellness initiatives. Are there programs promoting healthy lifestyles, such as smoking cessation programs and healthy eating initiatives? Are there community outreach programs that raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection? A community that prioritizes health and wellness is more likely to have a better breast cancer score.

In conclusion, the “Breast Cancer Score” for Stillwater (17878) is a multifaceted assessment. It is based on a comprehensive evaluation of primary care access and quality, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, support services, hospital infrastructure, and community health initiatives. The score reflects the community's preparedness to support individuals navigating a breast cancer diagnosis.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Stillwater and visualize the distribution of resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and support services, we encourage you to utilize the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for analyzing geographic data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.