17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.60 percent of the residents in 17880 has some form of health insurance. 33.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.98 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 17880 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17880. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,001 health care providers accessible to residents in 17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17880 and Swengel, PA

This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 17880, which encompasses the town of Swengel, Pennsylvania, with a specific focus on primary care availability and related resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare ecosystem, ultimately informing patients seeking optimal care. This analysis is not a definitive ranking but a comparative assessment based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests heavily on the accessibility and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through screening and referrals. In Swengel, a primarily rural area, primary care availability is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are likely a key indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potential delays in diagnosis. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar sources would be essential to ascertain the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 17880. This would then be compared to state and national averages to determine whether the area faces a shortage of PCPs.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' adherence to established breast cancer screening guidelines, such as those from the American Cancer Society or the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Practices should actively promote mammography screening for women over 40, as well as offer clinical breast exams. Assessing the presence of patient education materials and programs within these practices also contributes to the overall score. Are patients actively informed about risk factors, self-exams, and the importance of early detection?

Standout practices within 17880, if any, would be identified by their commitment to these standards. This would involve reviewing publicly available information on practice websites, patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and potentially, if available, data from health insurance providers. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education, screening reminders, and efficient referral processes would receive higher scores. The presence of on-site diagnostic imaging services, such as mammography, would be a significant advantage, streamlining the patient journey and potentially improving outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas like Swengel, where geographical barriers can limit access to specialists. The availability of virtual consultations with PCPs for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and even initial consultations can enhance access to care. Similarly, the ability to connect patients with specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, through telemedicine platforms can reduce travel burdens and expedite the referral process. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, and offer it as a standard option, would be viewed more favorably.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals, is critical. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer or facilitate access to these resources would be considered to provide a more holistic approach to patient care.

Furthermore, the presence of navigators or patient advocates within the healthcare system can significantly improve the patient experience. These individuals help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, explaining treatment options, and providing emotional support. The availability of such services, whether through the primary care practice or through external organizations, would be a positive indicator.

The proximity to specialized breast cancer centers is also a relevant consideration. While primary care physicians are crucial for early detection and initial management, patients often require access to specialized care, including surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. The distance to these centers, and the ease of access to them, impacts the overall care experience. The presence of a local hospital or medical center with a dedicated breast cancer program would be a significant advantage.

The quality of care also depends on the availability of support services. These include access to financial assistance programs, transportation services for appointments, and resources for managing side effects of treatment. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources would be considered to provide a higher level of care.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in 17880 and Swengel requires a multi-faceted approach. Factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, adherence to screening guidelines, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of support services all contribute to the overall quality of care. By evaluating these elements, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and access the resources they need.

This analysis provides a general overview. For a more detailed and geographically-specific understanding of healthcare access, availability, and proximity to services in the 17880 ZIP code, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and specialists, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape.