17981, Tremont, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17981, Tremont, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.47 percent of the residents in 17981 has some form of health insurance. 36.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.82 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 17981 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 578 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17981. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 348 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,136 health care providers accessible to residents in 17981, Tremont, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Tremont, PA (ZIP Code 17981)

Analyzing the availability of breast cancer care within Tremont, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17981) requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the presence of medical professionals but also the accessibility of care, the integration of technology, and the support systems available to patients. This analysis will focus on primary care availability as a crucial entry point to the healthcare system, as well as the broader landscape of care within the specified geographic area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care often begins with a strong primary care network. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are vital for preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Tremont, assessing the availability of PCPs is paramount. This involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio, which provides a basic understanding of the workload each doctor carries. A higher ratio (more patients per doctor) can potentially indicate longer wait times for appointments and less individualized attention. This data, however, is only one piece of the puzzle.

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 17981 requires accessing data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the U.S. Census Bureau, and potentially private healthcare databases. This data, when compiled, will reveal the number of PCPs actively practicing within the area and the estimated population they serve. This ratio will provide a baseline for understanding access to care.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. Are the PCPs in Tremont actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, including radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons? Are they knowledgeable about the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment and prevention? These questions are critical in evaluating the effectiveness of the primary care network.

Identifying standout practices within Tremont involves researching the reputation of individual clinics and physician groups. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites can offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and demonstrate a commitment to preventative care are likely to score higher in a breast cancer care analysis.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor to consider. The use of telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Tremont. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to attend appointments and receive follow-up care. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within the primary care network and specialty practices is crucial. Are PCPs offering virtual check-ups? Do specialists provide online consultations for second opinions or follow-up appointments? The degree of telemedicine adoption will directly influence the accessibility and convenience of care.

Mental health resources play a vital role in breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support services, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for holistic patient care. Assessing the presence of these resources within Tremont involves identifying local mental health providers, support groups, and cancer support organizations. The integration of mental health services into the primary care setting, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, is particularly beneficial.

The availability of specialized breast cancer care within Tremont and the surrounding areas must also be examined. This includes the presence of radiologists who perform mammograms and other imaging procedures, oncologists who provide chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, and surgeons who perform breast cancer surgeries. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of access to their services are critical factors in the overall quality of care.

Further evaluation involves assessing the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, and financial assistance programs, which can help patients cover the costs of treatment. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the patient experience and reduce the financial burden of cancer care.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for Tremont, Pennsylvania, is a composite of all these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the proximity of specialists, and the presence of support services all contribute to the final score. A higher score indicates a more comprehensive and accessible system of care.

In conclusion, evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in Tremont, PA, requires a thorough analysis of the healthcare infrastructure, including primary care, specialist availability, technological integration, and mental health support. The availability of PCPs, the use of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources are crucial elements. By assessing these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize and analyze the data discussed in this report, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a platform for creating interactive maps that can display physician locations, healthcare resource availability, and demographic data, offering a visual representation of the breast cancer care landscape in Tremont, PA, and beyond.