18248, Sheppton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18248, Sheppton, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.01 percent of the residents in 18248 has some form of health insurance. 31.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.89 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 18248 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 165 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18248. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 96 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,790 health care providers accessible to residents in 18248, Sheppton, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sheppton, PA (ZIP Code 18248)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape in Sheppton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18248) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, the quality of primary care, access to specialized oncology services, and the integration of supportive resources. Due to the limitations of publicly available data and the dynamic nature of healthcare, this assessment provides an informed overview rather than a definitive ranking.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible primary care. In Sheppton, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. A robust primary care system facilitates early detection through regular screenings and provides a crucial point of contact for patients navigating the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the PCP-to-patient ratio within the 18248 ZIP code is paramount. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and potentially, later-stage diagnoses. This directly impacts patient outcomes and the overall breast cancer score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This includes the adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and the provision of patient education materials. Practices that proactively reach out to patients for screening reminders and offer comprehensive wellness programs contribute significantly to a higher score. Evaluating the adherence to these best practices within Sheppton's primary care network is crucial.

Specialized oncology services are another key component of the breast cancer score. While Sheppton itself may not have a dedicated oncology center, the proximity and accessibility of such facilities are vital. The analysis must consider the travel time to the nearest cancer centers, the availability of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists, as well as the range of treatment options offered. This includes access to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and advanced therapies like targeted therapies and immunotherapies. The integration of these services within a coordinated care model, ensuring seamless transitions between primary care and specialist consultations, is also important.

Telemedicine adoption is a rapidly evolving aspect of healthcare delivery, and its impact on breast cancer care is significant. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients in rural areas like Sheppton with access to specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among healthcare providers in and around the 18248 ZIP code, including the types of services offered and the technology used, is crucial. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient access, reduce travel burdens, and enhance the overall patient experience, thereby contributing to a higher breast cancer score.

Mental health resources play a critical role in supporting patients throughout their breast cancer journey. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for providing comprehensive care. Evaluating the availability of these resources within Sheppton and the surrounding areas, including the types of services offered, the insurance coverage accepted, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, is an important aspect of this analysis. Practices that prioritize mental health support contribute to a more holistic and patient-centered approach, leading to a better breast cancer score.

Identifying standout practices within the 18248 ZIP code and its surrounding areas is also important. This involves recognizing healthcare providers who demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This could include practices with a high volume of breast cancer patients, a strong record of early detection, a commitment to patient education, and a focus on patient satisfaction. Examining patient reviews, physician ratings, and the adoption of innovative technologies and treatment approaches can help identify these standout practices. Recognizing and highlighting these practices can serve as a model for other providers and inspire continuous improvement in the quality of care.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of supportive resources, such as patient navigators, financial assistance programs, and educational materials. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access support services. Financial assistance programs can help patients manage the costs of treatment and care. Educational materials can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health. The availability of these resources can significantly impact the patient experience and improve outcomes.

A comprehensive breast cancer score for Sheppton (ZIP code 18248) would ideally incorporate data from various sources, including public health agencies, insurance providers, and healthcare facilities. This data would be analyzed to assess the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, primary care quality, access to specialized services, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of supportive resources. This analysis would then be used to assign a score, reflecting the overall quality of breast cancer care in the area.

However, obtaining and analyzing this level of detailed data can be challenging. The dynamic nature of healthcare, with changes in physician staffing, service offerings, and technology adoption, requires ongoing monitoring and updates. Despite these challenges, a thorough analysis can provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local breast cancer care landscape, informing efforts to improve patient outcomes and ensure access to high-quality care.

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