18214, Barnesville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18214, Barnesville, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.85 percent of the residents in 18214 has some form of health insurance. 44.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.46 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 18214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 263 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18214. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 545 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,610 health care providers accessible to residents in 18214, Barnesville, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Barnesville, PA (ZIP Code 18214)**

The health landscape of Barnesville, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 18214 ZIP code, presents a complex interplay of factors impacting breast cancer care. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a hypothetical metric assessing the availability, quality, and accessibility of services related to breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, with a focus on primary care physician (PCP) availability and related resources. This is not a real score but rather a hypothetical framework for evaluation.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact, guiding patients through screenings, risk assessments, and referrals. In Barnesville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial factor. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, limited access to preventative care, and ultimately, later-stage diagnoses. Assessing the number of practicing PCPs within the 18214 ZIP code and the surrounding areas, alongside the estimated population served, is the first step in understanding this ratio. This data, ideally, should be compared against national or state averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are PCPs actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams? Do they have systems in place to remind patients of their screening due dates? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data sharing and care coordination is also significant. EHRs allow for streamlined referrals to specialists, tracking of patient history, and improved communication between healthcare providers. The extent to which Barnesville PCPs utilize EHRs, and how effectively they integrate them into their practice, directly impacts the quality of care.

Standout practices within the area deserve recognition. These are clinics or individual physicians demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. They might be recognized for exceptional patient communication, proactive screening programs, or strong partnerships with local oncologists and radiologists. Identifying these practices, and highlighting their best practices, can serve as a model for other providers in the area. This could involve identifying practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or multilingual services to cater to diverse patient needs.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the "Breast Cancer Score." Telemedicine, or telehealth, has the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Barnesville. The availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, radiologists, and oncologists can significantly reduce travel time and improve patient convenience. Evaluating the adoption rate of telemedicine among PCPs in the 18214 ZIP code, along with the types of services offered virtually, is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of virtual follow-up appointments, remote monitoring of patients, and online educational resources.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital for patients facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological impact of cancer can be profound. The "Breast Cancer Score" should consider the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, in the Barnesville area. Are there therapists specializing in oncology or cancer-related issues? Are there local support groups for breast cancer survivors and their families? The presence of these resources, and their accessibility, significantly impacts the overall well-being of patients.

The proximity to specialized cancer centers is also important. While primary care is the cornerstone, access to specialized care, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists, is essential for treatment. The distance to the nearest cancer centers, and the ease of referral processes, directly affect patient outcomes. This includes assessing the travel time to these centers, the availability of transportation assistance for patients, and the coordination of care between PCPs and specialists.

Furthermore, insurance coverage and affordability play a significant role. The "Breast Cancer Score" should consider the acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may struggle with the cost of care. This includes assessing the availability of information about financial assistance programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Data collection and analysis are crucial for building the "Breast Cancer Score." This requires gathering information from various sources, including physician directories, hospital websites, insurance providers, and patient surveys. Analyzing this data, and comparing it to benchmarks, provides a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of breast cancer care in Barnesville. This data-driven approach enables informed decision-making and targeted improvements.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just about numbers; it is about the patient experience. It is about ensuring that every woman in Barnesville has access to the care she needs, when she needs it. This requires a collaborative effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. It is about creating a healthcare ecosystem that prioritizes prevention, early detection, and compassionate care.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of these factors – physician locations, hospital proximity, availability of support services, and more – consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you see the data in a new way, allowing you to identify patterns and trends that might be missed in a spreadsheet or a static report.