18087, Trexlertown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18087, Trexlertown, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.75 percent of the residents in 18087 has some form of health insurance. 35.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.84 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 18087 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 115 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18087. An estimate of 30 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 73 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 32,589 health care providers accessible to residents in 18087, Trexlertown, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Trexlertown, PA (ZIP Code 18087)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Trexlertown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18087) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the direct availability of specialists but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care access, mental health support, and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine. This analysis aims to provide a “Breast Cancer Score” perspective, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local medical infrastructure.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors serve as the initial point of contact for patients, providing preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Trexlertown, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local hospital systems would be crucial to determine the current ratio within the 18087 ZIP code. This data would be the first component of our "Breast Cancer Score" analysis.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Are PCPs actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams? Do they have established referral pathways to reputable radiology centers and oncologists? Investigating the practices of individual primary care offices within Trexlertown is essential. This involves examining their patient education materials, screening protocols, and partnerships with local healthcare providers. This is the second component of the "Breast Cancer Score" analysis.

Directly addressing breast cancer treatment requires access to specialized care. This includes oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and radiation oncologists. Determining the number of these specialists practicing within or serving the 18087 ZIP code is crucial. Proximity is a significant factor. Are these specialists located within Trexlertown, or do patients need to travel to neighboring cities like Allentown or Reading? Travel time and transportation options significantly impact patient care, particularly for those undergoing treatment that requires frequent appointments. The third component of the "Breast Cancer Score" analysis is the proximity and availability of specialists.

Identifying standout practices is a key element of this analysis. Some practices may demonstrate exceptional patient care, incorporating advanced technologies, offering comprehensive support services, or achieving superior patient outcomes. Researching local hospitals and cancer centers, along with online reviews and patient testimonials, can highlight these leading practices. Examining their accreditations (e.g., from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer) is also critical. This would constitute the fourth component of the "Breast Cancer Score" analysis.

The integration of telemedicine is becoming increasingly important in healthcare. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within the Trexlertown healthcare system is a vital component of our analysis. Do local practices offer virtual consultations? Are they utilizing remote monitoring technologies to track patient progress? The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. This is the fifth component of the "Breast Cancer Score" analysis.

Mental health support is a crucial aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Evaluating the availability of these resources within Trexlertown is a critical element of our analysis. Are there local mental health providers specializing in cancer-related issues? Are support groups readily accessible? Does the local healthcare system integrate mental health services into its cancer care programs? This is the sixth component of the "Breast Cancer Score" analysis.

Beyond the immediate medical infrastructure, other factors can influence the overall quality of breast cancer care. This includes access to financial assistance programs, patient navigation services, and community outreach initiatives. Evaluating the presence of these resources within Trexlertown would provide a more holistic view of the healthcare landscape. Are there local organizations that provide financial support to patients? Do hospitals or cancer centers offer patient navigation services to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system? This would be the seventh component of the "Breast Cancer Score" analysis.

Data collection and analysis would involve a combination of methods. This includes reviewing publicly available data from government agencies, contacting local healthcare providers, and analyzing online resources. The "Breast Cancer Score" would be a composite metric, incorporating the seven components discussed above, weighted based on their relative importance. The score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the breast cancer care landscape within Trexlertown, allowing for a comparative analysis and identifying areas for improvement.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" would be a dynamic metric, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves. Regular updates and re-evaluations would be necessary to ensure the score remains accurate and relevant. This ongoing process would provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, ultimately benefiting patients and healthcare providers alike.

To visualize and understand the complex interplay of these factors, consider utilizing a powerful mapping platform. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing you to see the distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas of need, and track changes over time. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in Trexlertown and beyond.