17887, White Deer, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17887, White Deer, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.25 percent of the residents in 17887 has some form of health insurance. 38.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.29 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 17887 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 303 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17887. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,294 health care providers accessible to residents in 17887, White Deer, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in White Deer, PA (ZIP Code 17887)**

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within White Deer, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17887), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing patient outcomes. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Breast Cancer Score’ assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors are often the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screening recommendations, and initial referrals. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially, delayed diagnoses. In White Deer, the precise PCP-to-patient ratio requires data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, cross-referenced with local physician listings. This data would reveal whether the community is adequately served by primary care providers.

Within the context of breast cancer, the presence of specialized practices is paramount. While White Deer may be a smaller community, access to specialists like oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons is vital. The existence of a dedicated breast cancer center, even if located outside of the immediate ZIP code but within a reasonable travel distance, would significantly improve the score. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care between various specialists, and providing access to advanced diagnostic tools like 3D mammography and potentially, clinical trials. Assessing the proximity to these specialized resources is a key element of the analysis.

The quality of care extends beyond the number of physicians and the presence of specialists. The adoption of technology, particularly telemedicine, can dramatically impact access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be located within the immediate vicinity. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption by local healthcare providers is crucial. Are virtual consultations available? Are remote monitoring systems used? These factors contribute to a higher score.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Assessing the accessibility of these resources, including their proximity, insurance coverage, and availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, is an important aspect of the score.

The assessment of "standout practices" requires qualitative research. This involves identifying healthcare providers or facilities that are recognized for their excellence in breast cancer care. This could include practices that have earned accreditation from organizations like the American College of Radiology, or those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. The score would be influenced by the presence of these practices and their reputation within the community.

To calculate the 'Breast Cancer Score,' each of the factors mentioned above would be weighted and assigned a numerical value. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might contribute 20% to the score, while the presence of a specialized breast cancer center could account for 30%. Telemedicine adoption and mental health resources might each contribute 15%, and the presence of standout practices could contribute 20%. The final score would be a composite value, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in White Deer.

Further complicating the analysis is the dynamic nature of healthcare. Physician availability can change, new technologies emerge, and the availability of mental health resources can fluctuate. Therefore, the 'Breast Cancer Score' should be considered a snapshot in time, requiring regular updates to remain accurate and relevant.

The evaluation process would involve several steps. First, gathering data from public sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, to determine physician-to-patient ratios. Second, conducting research to identify local healthcare providers and facilities, including their specialties, telemedicine capabilities, and affiliations. Third, assessing the availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. Fourth, gathering information on the presence of any standout practices and their reputation within the community. Finally, weighting the factors and calculating the overall score.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is intended to be a tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It provides a clear and concise assessment of the breast cancer care landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. This information can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their care, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to allocate resources effectively.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care in White Deer, PA (ZIP code 17887) requires a comprehensive approach. It involves examining physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. This assessment provides a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for those affected by breast cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in White Deer, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a clear and interactive overview of the healthcare resources available in your area.