18077, Riegelsville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18077, Riegelsville, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.56 percent of the residents in 18077 has some form of health insurance. 35.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.88 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 18077 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 335 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18077. An estimate of 55 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 558 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 37,007 health care providers accessible to residents in 18077, Riegelsville, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below focuses on evaluating the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18077 (Riegelsville, PA) and its surrounding areas, specifically considering primary care availability as a crucial factor. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering various elements that contribute to positive patient outcomes.

Riegelsville, Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge. It’s a small, rural community, meaning access to specialized medical care, including comprehensive breast cancer services, can be more difficult than in larger metropolitan areas. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) acts as a critical gateway to early detection and treatment. A strong primary care foundation is essential for effective breast cancer management, from initial screenings and referrals to ongoing support.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In rural settings, lower ratios can signal potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. Investigating the PCP-to-patient ratio within 18077 and the surrounding ZIP codes is paramount. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and similar sources would be crucial to ascertain the number of PCPs serving the population and compare it to national averages. A significantly lower ratio could indicate a need for increased recruitment of healthcare professionals or the expansion of existing practices.

Standout practices within the region should be evaluated based on their approach to breast cancer care. This includes factors such as the use of advanced screening technologies (e.g., 3D mammography), the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., biopsies), and the presence of multidisciplinary teams. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery, would score higher. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys also play a vital role in determining the quality of care provided. Practices with consistently positive feedback regarding patient experience and communication should be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the "Breast Cancer Score." Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialized care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations would receive a higher score. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists located outside the immediate geographic area, providing patients with access to a wider range of expertise. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within the region is essential.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health support is vital for patients' well-being. The "Breast Cancer Score" should consider the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology-related issues. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, either on-site or through referrals, would receive a higher score. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is also a positive indicator.

Specific practices within the 18077 ZIP code and its surrounding areas would need to be assessed individually. This would involve researching their services, reviewing patient feedback, and evaluating their integration of telemedicine and mental health resources. For example, practices that partner with local hospitals offering comprehensive cancer centers would likely score higher. Practices that prioritize patient education and provide access to resources on breast cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment would also be favorably evaluated.

The availability of support services is another important consideration. This includes access to patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, and financial assistance programs, which can help patients manage the costs of treatment. Practices that offer these services or provide referrals to them would contribute positively to the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the demographics of the population served by the practices. This includes factors such as age, race, and socioeconomic status. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to serving a diverse population and addressing health disparities would be recognized. This includes providing culturally sensitive care and ensuring that all patients have equal access to high-quality breast cancer services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" should be a dynamic assessment, regularly updated to reflect changes in healthcare practices and technologies. It should also be transparent, providing clear criteria and methodology for evaluation. This will ensure that the score is a reliable and useful tool for patients seeking breast cancer care in the Riegelsville area.

A crucial aspect of this analysis involves data collection. This includes gathering information from various sources, such as healthcare providers' websites, patient reviews, and publicly available data from government agencies and healthcare organizations. The data should be analyzed to identify trends and patterns in breast cancer care within the region.

The analysis should also consider the impact of external factors, such as insurance coverage and access to transportation. These factors can significantly affect patients' ability to access care. Practices that work with insurance providers to ensure affordable care and provide transportation assistance would be recognized.

In conclusion, assessing the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Riegelsville (18077) requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources. The "Breast Cancer Score" should be a comprehensive and dynamic assessment, providing valuable information to patients and healthcare providers.

For a visual representation of this data, including practice locations, physician availability, and access to support services, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. Visualize the landscape of breast cancer care in your community and make informed decisions about your health.