18219, Conyngham, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18219, Conyngham, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.81 percent of the residents in 18219 has some form of health insurance. 37.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.67 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 18219 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 118 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18219. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 288 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,748 health care providers accessible to residents in 18219, Conyngham, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Conyngham, PA (ZIP Code 18219)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 18219 (Conyngham, PA) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors impacting patient access, quality of care, and overall support systems. We’ll examine the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), their proximity to diagnostic and treatment facilities, and the adoption of technologies like telemedicine. We'll also assess the integration of mental health resources, a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the community.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on readily available primary care. PCPs are the initial point of contact, responsible for screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. In Conyngham, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios. This data, often sourced from state medical boards and demographic information, provides insight into the potential burden on existing PCPs. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) could indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and referrals. The geographical distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also critical. Are practices clustered in specific areas, leaving some residents with limited access? This analysis must consider travel times and transportation options for residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or lacking personal vehicles.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This assessment involves evaluating factors like patient reviews, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, and the implementation of preventative care protocols. Practices actively promoting breast cancer awareness, offering educational materials, and consistently recommending mammograms and other screenings will score higher. Additionally, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates efficient communication and coordination of care between PCPs, specialists, and diagnostic facilities. This streamlines the process, minimizing delays and ensuring seamless information flow.

The availability of specialized care, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is a critical component of the breast cancer care continuum. Within a reasonable radius of Conyngham, access to these specialists is paramount. This analysis will consider the presence of accredited cancer centers, hospitals with dedicated oncology departments, and the availability of advanced diagnostic imaging technologies like 3D mammography and MRI. Travel times to these facilities and the availability of transportation options, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments, are vital considerations. Furthermore, the expertise and experience of the specialists are assessed, considering their board certifications, years of practice, and involvement in research and clinical trials.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Conyngham. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists, receive remote monitoring, and access educational resources can significantly improve patient access to care and reduce the burden of travel. This analysis will examine the extent to which local practices and hospitals offer telemedicine services, the types of services available (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management), and the technology infrastructure supporting these services. The availability of telehealth platforms that are user-friendly and accessible to patients with varying levels of technological literacy is also a critical factor.

Mental health support is an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, and access to mental health professionals is essential for patients. This analysis will assess the availability of mental health services within the community, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within the cancer care continuum, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, is a significant advantage. Additionally, the availability of resources addressing financial concerns, social support, and other practical needs will be considered.

Standout practices within the Conyngham area, if any, will be identified. This will involve highlighting practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches to treatment, and a commitment to community outreach. These practices might be recognized for their patient-centered approach, their use of advanced technologies, or their strong partnerships with other healthcare providers. The analysis will also consider the practice's commitment to patient education and empowerment, providing patients with the information and resources they need to make informed decisions about their care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Conyngham will be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses across all these factors. The score will be based on a weighted system, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment. The weighting will reflect the relative importance of each factor, with factors like access to primary care and specialist care receiving higher weights. The final score will provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in Conyngham, highlighting areas for improvement and identifying opportunities to enhance patient outcomes.

This analysis is designed to be a starting point for a deeper understanding of breast cancer care within the Conyngham community. Further investigation, including direct engagement with healthcare providers, patients, and community stakeholders, is essential for a complete assessment. The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static measure; it should be continuously updated and refined to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and evolving patient needs.

For a visual representation of the breast cancer care landscape in Conyngham, PA (ZIP Code 18219), including physician locations, facility proximity, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome.