18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.67 percent of the residents in 18403 has some form of health insurance. 33.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.16 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 18403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,505 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18403. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,060 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,995 health care providers accessible to residents in 18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: 18403 Doctors and Archbald Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18403 and the primary care resources available to the residents of Archbald, Pennsylvania. We aim to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," though it's important to clarify that this is a composite assessment based on available data and does not represent a definitive medical rating. It considers factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, including physician accessibility, resource availability, and the integration of modern healthcare practices.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Archbald, being the community most served by 18403 physicians, becomes the focal point for evaluating primary care availability. Assessing this involves scrutinizing physician-to-patient ratios. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, potentially hindering timely screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates of these ratios. However, the actual impact on patient access also hinges on factors like insurance acceptance, office hours, and the utilization of advanced scheduling systems. The analysis will consider the availability of primary care physicians accepting new patients, as this directly impacts a resident’s ability to establish care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the provision of preventative care, such as breast cancer screenings. The analysis will assess the prevalence of practices that actively promote mammograms and other recommended screenings based on age and risk factors. These practices often have robust patient education programs and reminders to ensure individuals receive timely care. The existence of dedicated patient navigators or care coordinators within practices would further enhance the score, as these professionals can guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, particularly those facing a cancer diagnosis.

The analysis will identify standout practices within the 18403 ZIP code that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This involves evaluating their integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between specialists and primary care physicians. Furthermore, the assessment will consider the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and educational sessions, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Archbald. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a proactive approach to patient convenience and potentially reduce barriers to care.

Mental health is an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have profound emotional and psychological impacts. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health resources within the primary care practices and the broader community. This includes assessing whether practices offer on-site counseling services, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with support groups. The presence of these resources significantly contributes to the overall Breast Cancer Score, reflecting a holistic approach to patient well-being.

The analysis will also consider the proximity to specialized breast cancer centers. While primary care is the initial point of contact, access to specialized care is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. The presence of accredited cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance from Archbald will positively influence the score. These centers often provide comprehensive services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

The assessment of breast cancer care within the 18403 ZIP code also considers the integration of genetic testing and counseling. Individuals with a family history of breast cancer may benefit from genetic testing to assess their risk. Primary care practices that offer or facilitate access to genetic counseling and testing demonstrate a commitment to proactive risk assessment and personalized care. This can lead to earlier detection and potentially improved outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis will assess the availability of patient education materials and resources. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about breast cancer, screening guidelines, and treatment options demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health. This includes offering materials in multiple languages, if necessary, to cater to the diverse population of Archbald.

The Breast Cancer Score, as constructed in this analysis, is an evolving assessment. It is not intended to be a definitive medical rating, but rather a snapshot of the current landscape of breast cancer care within the defined geographic area. The score will be influenced by the availability of data, the accuracy of the information gathered, and the criteria used for evaluation. It is important to note that the scores are relative and should not be considered a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care in the 18403 ZIP code and Archbald, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the integration of technology, the availability of mental health resources, access to specialized care, and the provision of patient education. The resulting Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable overview of the healthcare landscape and can be used to identify areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and physician availability within the 18403 ZIP code and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for the visualization of healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and distribution of care.