18229, Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18229, Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.13 percent of the residents in 18229 has some form of health insurance. 40.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.26 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 18229 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,662 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18229. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,133 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,522 health care providers accessible to residents in 18229, Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Jim Thorpe, PA (ZIP Code 18229)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18229), focusing on primary care access and the overall healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide a nuanced “Breast Cancer Score” reflecting the resources available to patients for early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. This score considers factors beyond simple physician counts, delving into practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services, all critical elements in a comprehensive breast cancer care model.

Jim Thorpe, nestled in the Pocono Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities for healthcare delivery. Its relatively small population and rural setting may influence access to specialized care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as the foundational element of the score, as these physicians are often the first point of contact for patients and play a crucial role in screening and referral.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

Accurately assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is the initial step. While precise figures fluctuate, publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates. The score will reflect the ratio of PCPs (internal medicine, family medicine, and general practitioners) to the estimated population of Jim Thorpe and surrounding areas within the 18229 ZIP code. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access. However, the mere presence of physicians is insufficient; the score also evaluates the capacity of practices to accept new patients. Practices that are consistently accepting new patients will receive a higher score component.

The analysis will further explore the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code. Are the physicians concentrated in a single area, or are they dispersed, potentially increasing access for residents in more remote locations? This geographic accessibility is a crucial element of the overall score, particularly in a rural setting.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Beyond physician numbers, the analysis will identify and evaluate standout primary care practices in the area. These practices will be assessed based on several factors:

* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or other relevant certifications often signifies a commitment to quality and standardized care.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Online reviews, patient testimonials, and publicly available satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices with consistently positive reviews will receive a higher score.
* **Preventive Care Emphasis:** The score will evaluate the practice's emphasis on preventive care, including the promotion of breast cancer screenings (mammograms), education on self-exams, and adherence to screening guidelines. Practices actively promoting these practices will be recognized.
* **Specialty Integration:** The score will consider the practice's integration with specialists, such as oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons. Streamlined referral processes and collaborative care models enhance the patient experience.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Jim Thorpe. Practices offering telehealth consultations, virtual follow-ups, and remote monitoring services will receive a higher score. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients who face geographical barriers or mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth also allows for more efficient communication and coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. The Breast Cancer Score will critically assess the availability of mental health resources and their integration into primary care practices. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, will receive a higher score. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Furthermore, the analysis will evaluate the practice's awareness of and ability to address the unique mental health needs of breast cancer patients, such as anxiety, depression, and body image concerns.

**Overall Score and Scoring Methodology:**

The Breast Cancer Score will be a composite score, weighted based on the relative importance of each factor. Physician-to-patient ratio will be given significant weight, followed by the quality of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Each component will be scored independently, and the final score will be a weighted average of these individual scores. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing patients to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Jim Thorpe.

**Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Jim Thorpe, PA (18229) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the availability of primary care physicians is a fundamental element, the quality of those practices, their adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services are equally critical. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, offering insights into the resources available to patients facing breast cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Jim Thorpe and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and informative view of the healthcare environment, allowing you to make informed decisions about your care.