18083, Stockertown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18083, Stockertown, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.58 percent of the residents in 18083 has some form of health insurance. 16.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.42 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 18083 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 169 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18083. An estimate of 56 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 63 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 36,702 health care providers accessible to residents in 18083, Stockertown, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Stockertown, PA (ZIP Code 18083)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Stockertown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18083) requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess the physician-to-patient ratio, examine standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and investigate the presence of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are paramount. The availability of primary care physicians in Stockertown, and its surrounding areas, is a crucial starting point. We need to investigate the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and within a reasonable radius (e.g., 10-15 miles). This data provides a baseline understanding of accessibility. Are there enough primary care physicians to serve the population, especially considering the aging demographic, which often requires more frequent medical attention?

Physician-to-patient ratios offer a more granular perspective. This ratio, calculated by dividing the population by the number of primary care physicians, reveals the potential burden on each physician. A high ratio could indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and referrals. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially more time for physicians to focus on preventative care and patient education, key elements in breast cancer prevention and early detection. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratios within the Stockertown area is essential for a fair assessment.

Identifying standout practices within and around the ZIP code is equally important. This involves examining practices known for their commitment to breast cancer care. Are there practices that actively promote breast cancer screening guidelines, such as mammograms, and offer convenient scheduling options? Do these practices have a dedicated focus on women's health, including specialized staff or resources? Do they collaborate with local hospitals and specialists to ensure seamless referrals for further diagnosis and treatment? Examining patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient satisfaction.

Telemedicine adoption has dramatically reshaped healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas. The availability of telehealth services in Stockertown is a significant factor in our analysis. Does the local healthcare system offer virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and even support groups? Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, particularly for those in remote areas or with mobility limitations. It can also reduce the burden of travel for patients, making it easier to adhere to treatment plans and follow-up care. Investigating the extent of telemedicine adoption and its impact on patient access is critical.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are vital for patients navigating the emotional challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The stress, anxiety, and depression associated with this disease can significantly impact a patient's overall well-being and treatment outcomes. Therefore, assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the Stockertown area is crucial. Do primary care practices or local hospitals offer integrated mental health services? Are there support groups specifically for breast cancer patients? The presence of these resources can significantly improve the patient experience and contribute to a more holistic approach to care.

The Breast Cancer Score analysis will also consider the proximity to comprehensive cancer centers. While Stockertown may not have a specialized cancer center, access to such facilities within a reasonable driving distance is essential. The availability of specialized surgeons, oncologists, radiation therapists, and support staff is crucial for patients requiring advanced treatment. The ability to access these specialized services promptly is a significant factor in our assessment.

Data collection and analysis will involve several sources. We'll consult publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and the US Census Bureau. We'll also explore online physician directories, hospital websites, and patient review platforms. This will enable us to compile the necessary data points for our analysis.

The final Breast Cancer Score will be a composite metric, reflecting the availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity to specialized cancer centers. Each component will be weighted based on its perceived importance to patient care. The score will provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in Stockertown, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

The analysis will also provide recommendations for improvement. This might include advocating for increased access to primary care physicians, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, supporting the development of mental health resources, and encouraging collaboration between healthcare providers.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower patients and healthcare providers in Stockertown with the knowledge they need to improve breast cancer care. This includes providing insights into the local healthcare system and identifying opportunities for improvement. It also aims to raise awareness about the importance of early detection, preventative care, and comprehensive support services.

This analysis is designed to be a living document, updated periodically as new data becomes available and as the healthcare landscape evolves. It is a starting point for a more in-depth investigation into the breast cancer care system in Stockertown.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Stockertown and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.