18246, Rock Glen, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18246, Rock Glen, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.21 percent of the residents in 18246 has some form of health insurance. 38.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.57 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 18246 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 111 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18246. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 22 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,627 health care providers accessible to residents in 18246, Rock Glen, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Rock Glen, PA (ZIP Code 18246)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality concerning breast cancer within Rock Glen, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18246) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, a crucial entry point for early detection and referral, alongside the broader healthcare landscape, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This will provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, specifically tailored to the needs of residents in this area.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system rests upon readily accessible primary care. Rock Glen, as a small community, likely faces challenges in this regard. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. National averages provide a benchmark, but rural areas often struggle to meet these standards. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates a potential bottleneck, where patients may experience delays in accessing appointments, preventative screenings, and timely referrals to specialists, negatively impacting early detection and treatment outcomes. Public health data, such as county-level information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, will be critical in determining the actual physician-to-patient ratio within the broader Luzerne County, where Rock Glen is located.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is also vital. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, leaving others underserved? This geographical analysis is crucial to determine if residents in Rock Glen face disproportionate challenges in accessing care. Proximity to healthcare facilities, including hospitals and specialized cancer centers, also significantly impacts the overall score. Longer travel times to access care can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, particularly for patients with limited mobility or transportation options.

Identifying standout practices within or near Rock Glen is essential. These practices may be characterized by a commitment to preventative care, including aggressive screening programs for breast cancer. Practices that actively utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals often demonstrate better care coordination and patient communication, leading to improved outcomes. Furthermore, the presence of patient navigators or dedicated care coordinators within a practice can significantly enhance the patient experience, particularly for individuals navigating the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. These navigators can assist with appointment scheduling, insurance navigation, and emotional support, all of which contribute to a more positive patient journey.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially expanding access to specialists. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and even preliminary consultations for breast cancer concerns will score higher. The availability of telehealth also impacts the ability of patients to receive mental health support.

Mental health resources are an integral component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is a key indicator of a supportive healthcare environment. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers will receive a higher score. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, also plays a vital role in providing emotional support and fostering a sense of community among patients.

To calculate a "Breast Cancer Score," a weighted scoring system would be implemented. Factors such as physician-to-patient ratio, geographical distribution of providers, availability of telemedicine, the presence of patient navigators, and the integration of mental health resources would each be assigned a specific weight based on their relative importance. This score would then be used to rank the healthcare landscape in Rock Glen, providing a snapshot of its strengths and weaknesses. The score would also be compared to national and regional benchmarks to provide context and identify areas for improvement.

The "Breast Cancer Score" analysis for Rock Glen would also consider the availability of breast cancer screening services. This includes access to mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, as well as the frequency with which these screenings are offered. The presence of mobile mammography units, which can bring screening services directly to the community, can significantly improve access for women in rural areas. Furthermore, the analysis would assess the quality of these screening services, including the accreditation of imaging facilities and the expertise of radiologists.

The overall assessment would also examine the availability of cancer treatment facilities, including radiation oncology and surgical oncology services. Proximity to these facilities is crucial for patients undergoing treatment. The presence of clinical trials and research opportunities would also be considered, as these can provide access to innovative treatments and improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer healthcare landscape in Rock Glen (ZIP code 18246) requires a detailed evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized cancer services. The resulting "Breast Cancer Score" will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, allowing for targeted interventions to improve access to care and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
For a visual representation of this data, including the geographical distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant factors, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps.