17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.08 percent of the residents in 17888 has some form of health insurance. 35.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.37 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 17888 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 126 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17888. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 100 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,065 health care providers accessible to residents in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Wilburton, PA (ZIP Code 17888)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Wilburton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17888) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, primary care access, the integration of technology, and the crucial presence of mental health support, ultimately creating a 'Breast Cancer Score' indicative of the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals facing this disease. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform both patients and healthcare providers.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system rests on the availability of qualified medical professionals. In Wilburton, this translates to assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs), general surgeons, and, crucially, oncologists and radiologists specializing in breast health. Data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health is essential to determine these ratios. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of specialists, significantly impacts the 'Breast Cancer Score,' as it can lead to delayed diagnoses, treatment, and follow-up care. The presence of board-certified physicians, their experience levels, and their affiliations with larger hospitals or cancer centers are all critical factors.

Primary care availability is the next critical element. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for many patients, performing routine screenings, providing referrals, and coordinating care. The geographic distribution of PCPs within Wilburton and the surrounding areas, including their acceptance of various insurance plans, directly impacts access. Long wait times for appointments, limited office hours, and a lack of after-hours care can negatively impact the 'Breast Cancer Score.' Furthermore, the availability of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can provide crucial support in primary care settings, must be considered.

Beyond the physical presence of physicians, the integration of technology plays a significant role. Telemedicine adoption, for instance, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Wilburton. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, review imaging results remotely, and provide follow-up care via telehealth platforms can streamline the patient experience and reduce travel burdens. The 'Breast Cancer Score' benefits from practices that actively embrace and effectively utilize telemedicine technologies. This includes ensuring secure platforms, training staff on telehealth protocols, and providing patients with the necessary technical support.

Standout practices within Wilburton, if any exist, deserve specific recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care requires evaluating several criteria. This includes the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for screening and treatment, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of support services like patient navigators. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments, would also receive a higher score. Reviews from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and patient testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered by specific practices.

The psychological and emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is immense. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the 'Breast Cancer Score.' This includes access to licensed therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. The integration of mental health services within the healthcare system, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, is highly desirable. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients, offering resources like stress management programs and support groups, significantly improve the overall score.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. It is impacted by factors such as physician availability, primary care access, technological advancements, and the availability of mental health resources. Wilburton's score will fluctuate depending on the changing availability of specialists, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of support services.

The specific score for Wilburton, PA, will be determined by an aggregation of the data points discussed above. A comprehensive analysis would involve collecting data on physician-to-patient ratios, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This data would be weighted based on its impact on patient outcomes. For example, the availability of oncologists and radiologists would be weighted more heavily than the availability of general surgeons. The presence of telemedicine capabilities would be given a moderate weight, and the availability of mental health resources would be given a significant weight.

The final score would be presented on a scale, such as a percentage or a numerical score, and would provide a clear indication of the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Wilburton. This score would be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It would help patients make informed decisions about their care, identify areas for improvement in the local healthcare system, and prioritize resources to improve breast cancer outcomes.

Ultimately, improving the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Wilburton, PA, requires a collaborative effort. Healthcare providers must work together to improve access to care, embrace new technologies, and prioritize the mental well-being of their patients. Policymakers must support these efforts by investing in healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to mental health services, and promoting the use of evidence-based guidelines. Patients must advocate for their own care and actively participate in their treatment plans. By working together, the community can improve the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Wilburton and improve outcomes for those affected by this disease.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and support services, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilburton and the surrounding areas.