18069, Orefield, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18069, Orefield, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.47 percent of the residents in 18069 has some form of health insurance. 24.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.18 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 18069 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,829 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 41 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18069. An estimate of 71 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,376 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 35,495 health care providers accessible to residents in 18069, Orefield, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18069 & Primary Care in Orefield

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 18069 (Orefield, Pennsylvania) and its surrounding area, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), a critical entry point for breast cancer screening and early detection. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, all vital components of a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem. This analysis is not a definitive ranking, but rather an exploration of the landscape, based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends.

The foundation of breast cancer care begins with accessible and high-quality primary care. PCPs are often the first line of defense, guiding patients through screening recommendations, such as mammograms, and coordinating referrals to specialists when necessary. In the context of Orefield (18069), understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. While specific, real-time ratios are difficult to ascertain without access to proprietary datasets, publicly available information, such as the US Department of Health & Human Services' Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) data, can provide estimates. This data, combined with information from local hospital systems (e.g., Lehigh Valley Health Network, St. Luke's University Health Network) and insurance provider directories, can help gauge the availability of PCPs. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access to care. However, this metric alone is insufficient; the quality of care, the availability of appointment slots, and the acceptance of various insurance plans also play significant roles.

Beyond sheer numbers, identifying standout practices is crucial. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, patient education, and efficient referral processes. Practices that actively promote breast cancer screening guidelines, offer convenient appointment scheduling (including evening or weekend hours), and have established relationships with local radiology centers for mammograms are likely to be considered higher-quality providers. Furthermore, practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can enhance communication and coordination of care, leading to better patient outcomes. These practices often provide a more integrated approach to breast cancer screening and management.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. In the context of breast cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Practices that offer telehealth services, especially for routine check-ups and discussions of screening results, can improve convenience and reduce barriers to care. The availability of telemedicine also speaks to a practice's willingness to embrace innovation and adapt to the evolving needs of patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common among breast cancer patients. Practices that recognize this and offer access to mental health support, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. This may involve offering counseling services, support groups, or educational materials on managing stress and anxiety. The integration of mental health services is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach to care.

Evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in Orefield (18069) requires a nuanced understanding of the interplay between these factors. The availability of PCPs, the quality of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. While a comprehensive ranking is beyond the scope of this analysis, we can infer that practices that excel in all these areas are likely to provide superior care.

Looking beyond the immediate vicinity of Orefield, the broader healthcare ecosystem of the Lehigh Valley region plays a significant role. The presence of major hospital systems, such as Lehigh Valley Health Network and St. Luke's University Health Network, with their specialized cancer centers and comprehensive services, adds another layer of support. These hospitals often offer advanced diagnostic tools, treatment options, and clinical trials. The proximity of these resources can significantly impact the quality of breast cancer care available to patients in Orefield.

However, the analysis is limited by the availability of public data. A more thorough evaluation would require access to detailed information on individual practices, including patient satisfaction scores, screening rates, and referral patterns. Furthermore, understanding the specific insurance plans accepted by each practice is essential for assessing accessibility. The cost of care and the availability of financial assistance programs also play a crucial role in determining access to care.

In conclusion, evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in Orefield (18069) involves assessing physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While this analysis provides a general overview, a more in-depth investigation is necessary to provide a comprehensive ranking. The key takeaway is the importance of a multi-faceted approach to breast cancer care, encompassing not only medical expertise but also patient-centered support and access to resources.

**For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Orefield (18069) and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and access to resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of the data discussed, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.**