17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.86 percent of the residents in 17930 has some form of health insurance. 36.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.21 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 17930 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 43 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17930. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 60 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,776 health care providers accessible to residents in 17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17930 and Primary Care Availability in Cumbola**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 17930, encompassing the town of Cumbola, Pennsylvania, to assess the landscape of primary care availability and, by extension, the potential for early detection and management of breast cancer. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive healthcare system.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, signifying fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 17930 is crucial. This data, often available through state health departments or the U.S. Census Bureau, provides a baseline understanding of the community's healthcare capacity. If the ratio is unfavorable, it highlights a need for initiatives to attract more physicians or to optimize existing resources.

Beyond the raw numbers, the presence of standout practices can significantly impact the quality of care. Identifying practices that excel in breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment is essential. This requires examining factors such as the accreditation of facilities, the experience and specialization of physicians, and the availability of advanced imaging technologies like mammography and MRI. These practices often serve as hubs for care, potentially drawing patients from a wider area and influencing the overall quality of breast cancer care in the region.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate timely consultations. Assessing the level of telemedicine integration within the primary care practices in ZIP Code 17930 is therefore vital. Do these practices offer virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, or consultations with specialists? The presence of telemedicine capabilities can significantly improve the efficiency of care and reduce barriers to access, especially for patients in geographically isolated areas.

The mental health aspect of breast cancer care is often overlooked, yet it is a critical component of holistic treatment. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore paramount. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients? Are support groups available? The presence of these resources can provide crucial emotional support and improve the overall well-being of patients.

Cumbola, as a community within ZIP Code 17930, presents a unique context for this analysis. Its size, demographic makeup, and socioeconomic factors can influence the availability and accessibility of healthcare resources. Analyzing these factors is crucial to understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within the community. For example, the prevalence of certain risk factors for breast cancer, such as family history or lifestyle choices, may necessitate targeted screening programs or educational initiatives.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of breast cancer prevention and early detection. Regular check-ups with a primary care physician (PCP) provide opportunities for screening, risk assessment, and patient education. The analysis must therefore assess the number of PCPs practicing within Cumbola and the surrounding areas, as well as their patient load and appointment availability. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed screenings and missed opportunities for early intervention.

Furthermore, the analysis should investigate the referral pathways from primary care to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons. Are there established relationships between PCPs and specialists? Are referrals timely and efficient? A well-coordinated referral system is essential for ensuring that patients receive the appropriate level of care in a timely manner.

In addition to the factors already mentioned, the analysis should consider the availability of patient education materials and resources. Are there educational programs about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options? Are these resources readily accessible to the community, and are they available in multiple languages if necessary? Patient education empowers individuals to take an active role in their health and make informed decisions about their care.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for ZIP Code 17930 would be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed. It would not be a simple list of rankings, but rather a nuanced assessment that considers the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with good access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would highlight areas where improvements are needed to enhance breast cancer care.

This analysis, while focused on ZIP Code 17930 and Cumbola, can serve as a model for evaluating healthcare access in other communities. The methodology can be adapted to assess the availability of care for other diseases and conditions. The key is to gather data on various factors, analyze them, and identify areas where improvements are needed.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17930 and visualize the data in a compelling way, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can help you explore physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, providing valuable insights into healthcare access and resource distribution.