18074, Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18074, Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.81 percent of the residents in 18074 has some form of health insurance. 22.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.52 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 18074 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,205 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18074. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 999 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,974 health care providers accessible to residents in 18074, Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18074 & Primary Care in Perkiomenville

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18074 and the primary care ecosystem of Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania, focusing on factors impacting patient access and quality of care. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify potential standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all contributing to a composite "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the overall healthcare environment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Critical Indicator**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. In 18074, which encompasses portions of Lehigh County, the density of primary care physicians, oncologists, and radiologists directly impacts a patient's ability to access timely screening, diagnosis, and treatment. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and increased stress for patients. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially better outcomes. The analysis would involve researching the number of physicians specializing in relevant fields within the ZIP code and surrounding areas, cross-referencing this data with population figures to determine the ratio. For Perkiomenville, the focus shifts to the primary care landscape, as these physicians often serve as the initial point of contact for patients and are crucial for early detection and referrals. Data on the availability of specialists in nearby towns and cities would also be factored in, recognizing that patients in Perkiomenville may need to travel for specialized care.

**Identifying Standout Practices: Excellence in Care**

Identifying standout practices involves a multi-faceted approach. This includes analyzing patient reviews, assessing accreditations (e.g., from the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer), and examining the availability of comprehensive services. Practices with dedicated breast centers, offering a multidisciplinary approach with oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and support staff, would score highly. The presence of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is also a significant factor. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research initiatives demonstrate a commitment to innovation and offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments. The analysis would also consider the practice’s commitment to patient education and support services, such as survivorship programs and support groups. For Perkiomenville, the focus would be on identifying primary care practices that demonstrate a strong emphasis on preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings and patient education.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Expanding Access**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who may face transportation challenges or live in areas with limited access to specialists. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and mental health support would receive a higher score. The analysis would assess the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of use of the platform, and the availability of technical support for patients. The integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan, including clear communication protocols and seamless integration with electronic health records, is also crucial. For Perkiomenville, the availability of telemedicine options within primary care practices and the ease with which patients can access specialists via telehealth would be critical factors.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Emotional Toll**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can take a significant emotional toll on patients. The availability of mental health resources is, therefore, a crucial component of comprehensive care. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, referrals to mental health professionals specializing in cancer care, and access to support groups would be highly valued. The analysis would assess the availability of these resources, the qualifications of the mental health professionals, and the accessibility of these services to patients. The integration of mental health support into the overall care plan, including screening for depression and anxiety, is also a key factor. For Perkiomenville, the analysis would consider the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices and the ease with which patients can access specialized mental health support in the surrounding areas.

**The Composite Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a single number but a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. Each factor would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance in influencing patient outcomes and access to care. The physician-to-patient ratio, for example, might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption. The scores for each factor would then be combined to create an overall score reflecting the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the specified areas. This score would provide a valuable benchmark for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services. The analysis would also identify areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of physicians, expanding telemedicine offerings, and enhancing mental health support.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial for patients navigating the complexities of breast cancer care. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the quality and accessibility of care in ZIP code 18074 and the surrounding areas, with a specific focus on primary care availability in Perkiomenville. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and exploring mental health resources, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in your area and gain a visual representation of the data discussed, we encourage you to utilize **CartoChrome maps**. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify healthcare providers, assess access to care, and make informed decisions about your health.