17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.29 percent of the residents in 17948 has some form of health insurance. 51.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.11 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 17948 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,100 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17948. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 659 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,784 health care providers accessible to residents in 17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania.

Breast cancer care is a multifaceted challenge, demanding a comprehensive approach that considers not only medical expertise but also accessibility, patient support, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis focuses on the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 17948, specifically Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania, evaluating the availability and quality of care, with a focus on primary care accessibility.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in early detection and consistent follow-up. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a crucial role in screening, risk assessment, and referrals. In Mahanoy City, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio provides an initial understanding of access. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic procedures. Furthermore, the geographical distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is essential. Are practices centrally located, easily accessible by public transportation, or do patients face significant travel distances? This impacts the ability of patients, especially those with limited mobility or transportation options, to receive timely care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices matters. Are PCPs up-to-date on the latest breast cancer screening guidelines, including mammography recommendations based on age and risk factors? Do they proactively discuss breast cancer risk with their patients, taking into account family history, lifestyle factors, and other relevant information? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability is also a significant consideration. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers, ensuring coordinated care and reducing the risk of errors. The adoption of patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their physicians, further enhances patient engagement and improves care coordination.

Specialized breast cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, is often provided outside of primary care settings. While Mahanoy City itself may not have a full complement of these specialists, access to them through referrals is crucial. The efficiency and speed of these referral processes are important. Do PCPs have established relationships with specialists in nearby cities or medical centers? Are referral protocols streamlined, minimizing delays in diagnosis and treatment? The availability of a multidisciplinary team, bringing together various specialists to collaborate on patient care, is a hallmark of high-quality breast cancer care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Mahanoy City can significantly improve access to care, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups. The availability of telehealth consultations for breast cancer screening results, medication management, and psychological support can greatly enhance the patient experience and reduce the burden of travel.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. Are mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, readily available in Mahanoy City or nearby? Do primary care practices have established referral pathways to mental health services? The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, provides patients with a vital network of support and a platform to share their experiences. Integrating mental health services into the overall care plan is essential for addressing the emotional and psychological needs of patients.

Standout practices within the 17948 ZIP code demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. These practices may excel in several areas, including: proactive patient education on breast cancer risk and screening, efficient referral processes to specialists, the adoption of telemedicine to improve access to care, the integration of mental health services, and a patient-centered approach that prioritizes communication and support. These practices serve as models for other providers, highlighting best practices and demonstrating the positive impact of a holistic approach to care.

The success of breast cancer care also relies on community outreach and education. Do healthcare providers in Mahanoy City actively participate in community events to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection? Do they partner with local organizations to provide educational materials and resources? Community involvement fosters a culture of awareness and empowers individuals to take proactive steps to protect their health.

The assessment of breast cancer care in Mahanoy City reveals a complex interplay of factors. Primary care accessibility, the quality of care provided by PCPs, the efficiency of referral processes, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the involvement of community organizations all contribute to the overall quality of care. While a detailed, quantitative scoring system would require extensive data collection and analysis, the qualitative assessment suggests areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize and analyze the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and patient demographics, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and analytical tools that can help healthcare providers and policymakers gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mahanoy City and identify areas where resources are needed most. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps.