18059, Laurys Station, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18059, Laurys Station, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.54 percent of the residents in 18059 has some form of health insurance. 20.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.41 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 18059 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 108 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 52 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18059. An estimate of 126 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 147 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 51,576 health care providers accessible to residents in 18059, Laurys Station, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Laurys Station, PA (ZIP Code 18059)

This analysis provides a detailed assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within the Laurys Station, PA (ZIP Code 18059) area, focusing on primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive picture for residents seeking information on their healthcare options.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is the availability of robust primary care. In Laurys Station, the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts access to early detection and preventative measures. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed appointments, impacting the timely ordering of mammograms and other crucial screenings. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater ease of access, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved patient outcomes. Investigating the specific number of PCPs practicing within and immediately adjacent to 18059, alongside the local population demographics, is essential to calculate this ratio accurately. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association would be crucial in this initial assessment.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and reputation of the available primary care practices are paramount. Researching patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades, Zocdoc, and Vitals provides valuable insights into patient satisfaction, physician communication skills, and the overall patient experience. Identifying practices that consistently receive positive feedback, particularly regarding their approach to preventative care and responsiveness to patient concerns, is crucial. These standout practices often serve as a benchmark for the standard of care in the area. Further investigation should include whether these practices actively participate in breast cancer screening programs and offer patient education materials.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Laurys Station is a significant factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and the delivery of test results, reducing the need for in-person visits and potentially improving patient convenience. Assessing the extent to which local PCPs offer telemedicine services, including the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), is essential. This includes evaluating the ease of use of the telemedicine platforms and the availability of technical support for patients.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. The availability of mental health resources for patients is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. This analysis examines the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Laurys Station area or nearby. Assessing whether primary care practices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers is vital. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, specifically for breast cancer patients is also a key factor. Information on the accessibility of these resources, including insurance coverage and wait times, is crucial.

The analysis also considers the proximity of specialized breast cancer care facilities. The presence of nearby hospitals or clinics with dedicated breast cancer centers, offering services such as mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, is a significant advantage. Evaluating the ease of access to these facilities, including travel time and transportation options, is essential. The accreditation status of these facilities, such as accreditation by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer, can be an indicator of the quality of care provided.

The ability of local practices to coordinate care effectively is also considered. Assessing whether primary care physicians actively collaborate with specialists, share patient records electronically, and participate in multidisciplinary care teams is important. This coordination ensures a seamless and integrated approach to patient care. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and the interoperability of these systems across different healthcare providers is a key factor in facilitating care coordination.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of resources for patient education and support. This includes the availability of educational materials on breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment options. Assessing whether primary care practices offer patient navigation services to assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, scheduling appointments, and accessing financial assistance programs is also important. The presence of patient advocacy groups and support organizations in the area can also provide valuable resources and support for patients.

The evaluation must also consider the demographic characteristics of the Laurys Station population. Factors such as age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence breast cancer risk and access to care. Analyzing the prevalence of breast cancer in the local population and identifying any disparities in access to care based on demographic factors is essential. This analysis would ideally incorporate data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The assessment should also investigate the presence of community outreach programs aimed at promoting breast cancer awareness and early detection. This includes assessing whether local healthcare providers participate in community events, offer free screenings, or provide educational programs to raise awareness about breast cancer. The effectiveness of these programs in reaching underserved populations is a key factor.

In conclusion, a comprehensive breast cancer score for Laurys Station, PA (ZIP Code 18059) requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates a deep dive into physician availability, practice reputations, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. By understanding these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in local breast cancer care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Laurys Station, including the location of primary care physicians, breast cancer care facilities, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping solutions can provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare resources available in your area.