18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.46 percent of the residents in 18255 has some form of health insurance. 40.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.16 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 18255 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 895 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18255. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 774 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,750 health care providers accessible to residents in 18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18255, encompassing the town of Weatherly, Pennsylvania, requires a nuanced understanding of available resources, physician accessibility, and the overall healthcare ecosystem. This report will delve into these factors, creating a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, while acknowledging the inherent limitations of such a localized analysis. We will also examine the availability of primary care services, a critical component of early detection and ongoing support for patients.

The foundation of any breast cancer care assessment lies in the availability and accessibility of qualified medical professionals. Within 18255, the presence of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast procedures, and radiologists capable of performing and interpreting mammograms are paramount. Directly assessing the number of these specialists practicing within the ZIP code is challenging. However, we can infer their presence based on the size and scope of local healthcare facilities and their affiliations with larger regional hospitals.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to care and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. Determining this ratio specifically for 18255 requires data on the population of the area and the number of relevant specialists practicing there. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau can provide population figures, while resources like the American Medical Association (AMA) physician directory can help identify practicing physicians.

Standout practices, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes early detection programs, such as mobile mammography units, and a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, oncologists, radiation therapists, and support staff. Practices that integrate patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, are also highly valued. The presence of these elements within a practice would significantly elevate its Breast Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Weatherly. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, would receive a higher score. This is particularly important for patients who may face challenges traveling to larger medical centers for routine appointments.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, specializing in oncology, is essential. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, or readily refer patients to mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community.

Primary care availability is a vital aspect of this analysis. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a crucial role in early detection through breast cancer screening recommendations and referrals to specialists. A robust primary care network within Weatherly ensures that patients have access to regular check-ups and preventative care. The ratio of PCPs to the population of Weatherly is a key indicator of access. Also, the integration of PCPs with specialists for seamless referrals and communication is vital for a high Breast Cancer Score.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Weatherly (ZIP code 18255) would be determined by weighting these factors. The availability of specialists, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources would all be considered. The availability of primary care, its integration with specialist care, and the population it serves would also be factored in. A higher score would reflect a more comprehensive and accessible system of breast cancer care.

The assessment of breast cancer care in Weatherly, PA, is complex. The specific scoring would require a comprehensive data gathering effort. However, we can begin to paint a picture of the area's strengths and weaknesses. The data will inform the public and healthcare providers to improve the quality of care.

To fully understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and the accessibility of care within Weatherly and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visualize physician locations, facility locations, and other relevant data points, providing a comprehensive spatial analysis of healthcare accessibility. This tool can help identify areas with limited access to care and inform strategies to improve healthcare delivery.