18235, Lehighton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18235, Lehighton, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.62 percent of the residents in 18235 has some form of health insurance. 38.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.49 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 18235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,756 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18235. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,645 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,164 health care providers accessible to residents in 18235, Lehighton, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lehighton, PA (ZIP Code 18235)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care within Lehighton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18235), focusing on physician availability, primary care resources, and related support systems. The goal is to evaluate the local healthcare landscape and offer insights into the accessibility and quality of care for individuals navigating breast cancer concerns. This analysis does not constitute medical advice.

The core of effective breast cancer care begins with readily accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). Lehighton, a relatively rural community, faces challenges in maintaining a robust PCP network. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early detection efforts. The analysis will examine the estimated PCP-to-patient ratio within the 18235 ZIP code, comparing it to regional and national averages. This comparison will reveal whether Lehighton residents have adequate access to primary care, the gateway to preventative care and early referrals.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are paramount. Factors such as appointment scheduling efficiency, patient satisfaction ratings, and the availability of same-day appointments are all critical. The analysis will delve into these aspects, examining online reviews, patient testimonials (where available), and publicly accessible data to assess the overall patient experience within local primary care practices. It is important to note that publicly available data on physician performance is often limited, and this analysis will rely on the most reliable sources available.

A key component of breast cancer care is the availability of specialized medical services. While Lehighton may not have a comprehensive cancer center within its immediate boundaries, the analysis will evaluate the proximity to and accessibility of regional cancer centers and specialists. This includes assessing travel times, transportation options, and the ease of referral processes between local PCPs and specialized providers. The proximity to facilities offering mammography, biopsies, and other diagnostic procedures is also crucial.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers a potential solution to geographical barriers and limited physician availability, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health support. The analysis will assess the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. The ease of use and patient satisfaction with these telehealth services will also be considered.

Mental health resources are a vital, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological toll of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be significant. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services within Lehighton and the surrounding areas. This includes assessing the types of mental health services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, psychiatric services), the availability of specialized therapists with experience in oncology, and the accessibility of these resources (e.g., cost, insurance acceptance, wait times).

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in breast cancer care, will be identified. This assessment will consider factors such as patient outcomes, patient satisfaction, and the integration of comprehensive care models. Practices that proactively offer patient education, support groups, and navigation services will be given particular attention. These practices often serve as models for best practices within the community.

The analysis will also explore the role of community resources in supporting breast cancer patients. This includes assessing the availability of patient navigation services, which help patients navigate the complex healthcare system; financial assistance programs, which help patients manage the costs of treatment; and support groups, which provide emotional support and a sense of community. The analysis will examine the accessibility and effectiveness of these resources.

The analysis will then synthesize all the gathered information to create a "Breast Cancer Score" for the 18235 ZIP code. This score will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care in Lehighton. The score will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the proximity to specialized medical services, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of community support services.

The analysis will conclude with a summary of the key findings, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape. This will include specific recommendations for improving breast cancer care in Lehighton. The goal is to provide a clear and actionable assessment that can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders to improve the overall quality of care.

This analysis is not intended to be a definitive ranking of physicians or practices. Instead, it is designed to provide a general overview of the healthcare landscape and identify areas where improvements are needed. The availability of data can vary, and this analysis will be based on the most reliable sources available.
**Actionable Insights with CartoChrome Maps:**

For a more detailed, interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lehighton and surrounding areas, including physician locations, facility locations, and demographics, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of the data analyzed, allowing you to easily identify resources, assess proximity, and understand the distribution of healthcare services within the community. Visualize the data and empower yourself to make informed decisions about your healthcare.