18407, Carbondale, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18407, Carbondale, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.59 percent of the residents in 18407 has some form of health insurance. 49.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.67 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 18407 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,135 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18407. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,877 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,886 health care providers accessible to residents in 18407, Carbondale, Pennsylvania.

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18407, encompassing Carbondale, Pennsylvania, with a focus on primary care availability and related factors. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients and identify areas of strength and potential improvement. This is not a formal ranking, but rather a comprehensive assessment.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon strong primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through screening and referrals. In Carbondale, assessing primary care availability involves examining physician-to-patient ratios. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to appointment delays and reduced access to preventive services. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can be utilized to estimate these ratios. A detailed analysis would compare the physician-to-patient ratio in 18407 to state and national averages, highlighting any disparities.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community is essential. Are they concentrated in a single location, or are they spread out to serve different neighborhoods? The presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is also a key consideration. These facilities often serve vulnerable populations and provide comprehensive care, including access to breast cancer screening and support services. Understanding the locations and services offered by these clinics is vital.

Standout practices in Carbondale would be those demonstrating a commitment to preventative care and early detection. This includes actively promoting mammography screening, providing patient education on breast cancer risk factors, and offering timely referrals to specialists. Identifying these practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online reviews, and potentially surveying local healthcare providers. A practice excelling in these areas would likely have a well-defined system for tracking patients' screening compliance and providing reminders.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant in healthcare delivery. The ability to offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients facing mobility issues or residing in remote areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption in Carbondale requires examining the availability of virtual appointments with PCPs and specialists. This includes determining the platforms used, the types of services offered virtually, and the insurance coverage for telemedicine visits. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and modern healthcare practices.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Evaluating the availability of mental health support in Carbondale involves assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. Do PCPs have established referral pathways to mental health providers? Are there support groups or counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients? Access to these resources is crucial for supporting patients' overall well-being.

Specific practices that excel in providing mental health support might offer on-site counseling, integrate mental health screenings into routine checkups, or actively collaborate with local mental health organizations. This demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the importance of addressing both physical and emotional needs.

To further assess the quality of breast cancer care, it's necessary to examine the availability of specialized services. This includes access to oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists involved in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Are there local specialists, or do patients need to travel to larger cities for care? The proximity of specialists can significantly impact the speed and convenience of treatment. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, where specialists collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans, is a positive indicator of high-quality care.

Another important factor is the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis). This technology can improve the detection of breast cancer, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. Assessing the availability of these technologies within Carbondale's healthcare facilities is crucial.

The availability of patient navigation services is another crucial element. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing emotional support, and helping them access resources. The presence of patient navigation services can significantly improve the patient experience and ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in Carbondale requires a multi-faceted approach. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining mental health resources are all critical components. Furthermore, access to specialized services, advanced imaging technologies, and patient navigation services are essential for providing comprehensive and high-quality care. The data and analysis presented here highlight the complexity of the healthcare landscape.

To visualize and analyze this information further, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you overlay healthcare data, identify access gaps, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Carbondale and beyond.