18014, Bath, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18014, Bath, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.88 percent of the residents in 18014 has some form of health insurance. 35.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.28 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 18014 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,540 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 30 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18014. An estimate of 91 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,599 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 28,705 health care providers accessible to residents in 18014, Bath, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Bath, PA (ZIP Code 18014)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 18014 (Bath, Pennsylvania), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), a critical access point for early detection and ongoing support. The evaluation considers factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis does not constitute medical advice.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, responsible for screening recommendations, risk assessments, and referrals. Within Bath, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. While precise numbers fluctuate, the area generally experiences a ratio reflective of the broader Lehigh Valley region. This means that the availability of PCPs might be somewhat limited, creating potential challenges for timely appointments and preventative care. This is particularly relevant for women needing routine mammograms and follow-up appointments.

The quality of care provided by individual practices varies. Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into specific criteria. This includes evaluating patient satisfaction scores (through platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc), the breadth of services offered (e.g., on-site imaging, specialized women's health services), and the integration of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and management. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive outreach for screenings, and seamless referral processes to specialists (e.g., oncologists, surgeons) would be considered high-performing. These practices often prioritize a patient-centered approach, fostering a supportive environment that addresses the emotional and psychological aspects of breast cancer care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, and its continued integration can significantly improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health support. Practices that offer virtual appointments for routine check-ins, medication management, and discussions about treatment plans are better positioned to serve patients, especially those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. The availability of telemedicine can also reduce the burden on the physical healthcare system, making it easier for patients to get the care they need.

Mental health resources are an essential, yet often overlooked, component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and its treatment can lead to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of on-site or readily accessible mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns, provide referrals to qualified therapists and psychiatrists, and offer support groups for patients and their families demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. This can significantly improve the patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

Assessing the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Bath requires a holistic approach. The score would be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. A higher score would indicate better access to care, higher quality of services, and a more supportive environment for patients. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a significant factor, with a lower ratio (more physicians per patient) contributing to a higher score. The presence of standout practices, as defined by the criteria mentioned above, would also boost the score.

Telemedicine adoption would be considered a positive factor, particularly if it is integrated into the practice's routine care. The availability of mental health resources would be weighted heavily, as it is a critical component of comprehensive care. The score is not a static number. It would need to be updated regularly to reflect changes in physician availability, practice improvements, and the integration of new technologies and resources.

The analysis also needs to address disparities in care. Are there differences in access to care based on socioeconomic status, race, or ethnicity? Are there programs in place to address these disparities? The presence of outreach programs targeting underserved populations would be considered a positive factor, as it demonstrates a commitment to equitable care.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Bath, PA (18014) is a complex evaluation that requires a multifaceted approach. It is essential to assess physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources. The score is a dynamic measure that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. This analysis highlights the critical need for continuous improvement in breast cancer care within Bath, PA.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and areas with potential access challenges, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of the data, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the landscape of breast cancer care in Bath, PA.