17946, Lost Creek, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17946, Lost Creek, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17946 has some form of health insurance. 20.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.86 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 17946 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 75 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17946. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 18 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,903 health care providers accessible to residents in 17946, Lost Creek, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lost Creek, PA (ZIP Code 17946)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the Lost Creek, Pennsylvania, ZIP code of 17946, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility and related support systems. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" based on several key factors, ultimately painting a picture of the healthcare landscape for individuals in this community. This analysis considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

Lost Creek, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities within its healthcare system. The success of early detection and treatment hinges on the accessibility of primary care physicians, who often serve as the first point of contact for patients.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

A critical component of the "Breast Cancer Score" is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reflects the number of primary care physicians available to serve the population. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data, such as information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and the US Census Bureau, needs to be analyzed to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP code 17946. However, based on typical rural healthcare trends, it’s probable that Lost Creek faces challenges in this area.

Primary care availability extends beyond just the number of physicians. It encompasses the types of practices available (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine), their hours of operation, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance options, including Medicare and Medicaid, are essential for ensuring equitable access to care for all residents. The availability of evening and weekend appointments can also significantly improve access, particularly for working individuals.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within the Lost Creek area is crucial. These practices might be recognized for their patient-centered care, their commitment to preventative screenings, or their utilization of advanced diagnostic tools. Researching local hospitals, clinics, and physician groups is essential to identify these practices.

Factors to consider include:

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) often signifies a commitment to quality and patient safety.
* **Screening Programs:** Practices with robust breast cancer screening programs, including mammography and follow-up care, are highly valued.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience.
* **Care Coordination:** Effective care coordination, especially for patients with complex medical needs, is a key indicator of a high-quality practice.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Expanding Access**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas like Lost Creek. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a significant factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." Telemedicine can facilitate:

* **Initial Consultations:** Remote consultations can provide patients with timely access to physicians for initial assessments and discussions about breast health concerns.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Telemedicine can be used for follow-up appointments, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience.
* **Specialist Consultations:** Telemedicine can connect patients with specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, who may not be readily available in the local area.

The availability of telehealth services should be assessed by examining the websites of local practices, contacting them directly, and reviewing information from healthcare networks.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an essential component of the "Breast Cancer Score." This includes:

* **Counseling Services:** Access to licensed therapists and counselors who specialize in supporting individuals with cancer.
* **Support Groups:** The presence of local or virtual support groups that provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences and connect with others.
* **Psychiatric Care:** Availability of psychiatrists for patients who require medication or more intensive mental health support.

Researching local hospitals, community health centers, and support organizations is crucial to identify these resources. Information from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) can also be helpful in locating support services.

**Creating the "Breast Cancer Score"**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Lost Creek would be determined by weighing the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources would each be assigned a numerical value, with the final score reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care. This score would provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. The score should also be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare environment.

**Conclusion**

This analysis provides a framework for assessing the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Lost Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17946). A comprehensive evaluation requires detailed data collection and analysis. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas where improvements can be made to ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.

**Call to Action**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lost Creek, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.