17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.90 percent of the residents in 17929 has some form of health insurance. 37.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.19 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 17929 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 246 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17929. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 286 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Cressona, PA (ZIP Code 17929)

Analyzing the breast cancer landscape within Cressona, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17929) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, primary care access, and the integration of modern healthcare practices, ultimately aiming to provide a ‘Breast Cancer Score’ assessment for the area. This score isn't a single number but rather a composite understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in breast cancer care accessibility and support.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Cressona's primary care availability is crucial. A robust PCP network serves as the initial point of contact for patients, facilitating early detection through screenings, providing referrals to specialists, and offering ongoing support. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced preventative care, and ultimately, poorer outcomes. Data from the US Department of Health & Human Services and local healthcare provider listings would be needed to determine the actual ratio.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are PCPs actively promoting and facilitating mammograms and other screening procedures? Do they have established relationships with radiology centers and oncology specialists? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for seamless information sharing between different healthcare providers is also a crucial factor. This ensures that a patient's medical history and test results are readily available to all involved in their care.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialists is critical. This includes radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and pathologists. The proximity of these specialists to Cressona residents directly impacts access to timely diagnosis and treatment. A significant distance to the nearest specialist can create logistical and financial burdens for patients, potentially delaying crucial interventions. Analyzing the geographical distribution of specialists, their hospital affiliations, and their patient load is essential for a comprehensive assessment.

Standout practices within the region are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. These practices often have a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together various specialists to collaborate on patient care. They may offer advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and participate in clinical trials. Their commitment to patient education and support groups is another indicator of their dedication. Identifying these practices requires reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing practice websites, and potentially conducting interviews with healthcare professionals.

Telemedicine adoption is an increasingly important aspect of healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Cressona. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The availability of virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can significantly enhance the patient experience. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local healthcare providers, including the availability of virtual platforms and the willingness of physicians to utilize these technologies, is a key component of the analysis.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is crucial for patients' well-being. The availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups in the Cressona area is a critical factor. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals specializing in oncology, the accessibility of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for Cressona, PA (ZIP code 17929) would be derived from a weighted analysis of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a significant component, weighted heavily due to its impact on access. The availability of specialists, particularly those with advanced technologies and multidisciplinary care models, would also receive a high weighting. Telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health resources would contribute to the overall score, reflecting the modern, patient-centered approach to care. The score would not be a single number but a nuanced assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape.

A low score might indicate a scarcity of PCPs, limited access to specialists, and a lack of telemedicine and mental health resources. This would necessitate interventions to improve access and quality of care. A high score, on the other hand, would suggest a robust healthcare system with readily available resources and a patient-centered approach.

To accurately assess the breast cancer care landscape in Cressona, PA, the data would need to be continually updated. Healthcare systems are constantly evolving, with new technologies and treatment options emerging regularly. Regular monitoring and analysis are essential to ensure that patients have access to the best possible care.

The analysis would also need to consider socioeconomic factors. Income levels, insurance coverage, and transportation access can all impact a patient's ability to receive care. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential to ensure equitable access to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

This analysis is a starting point for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in Cressona, PA. It highlights the critical factors that contribute to patient outcomes and identifies areas for improvement.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Cressona, PA, and beyond, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, enabling a more comprehensive analysis of access to care and identifying areas where resources are most needed.