18413, Clifford, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18413, Clifford, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18413 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 18413 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18413. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,558 health care providers accessible to residents in 18413, Clifford, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Clifford, PA (ZIP Code 18413)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within the ZIP code 18413 area, specifically focusing on the availability of primary care physicians in Clifford, PA. The assessment considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment in this specific geographic region.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on a robust primary care infrastructure. Regular check-ups, screenings, and referrals are crucial for early detection and successful treatment. In Clifford, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the overall breast cancer score. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care providers, can create significant barriers to timely access to care. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced treatment options, and ultimately, poorer patient outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and a potentially more favorable environment for breast cancer care.

Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in Clifford requires accessing current data on the number of primary care physicians practicing within the 18413 ZIP code and comparing it to the population size. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be used to determine the population. Medical licensing boards and physician directories can help identify the number of practicing primary care physicians. The resulting ratio will provide a baseline for assessing the accessibility of primary care services.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care is critical. Identifying standout practices within the Clifford area is essential. These practices may be characterized by several factors. They might have a dedicated focus on women's health, offering comprehensive services like mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and potentially even access to breast specialists. They could be recognized for their patient-centered approach, emphasizing clear communication, empathy, and individualized treatment plans. Another factor would be the practice's adherence to evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment.

Evaluating standout practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online reviews, and researching the practice's affiliations with larger healthcare systems or hospitals. Practices that have established relationships with specialized breast cancer centers or oncologists can be considered more favorable. The presence of certified mammography facilities and the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), are also indicators of high-quality care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Clifford. Telemedicine adoption can improve access to care by reducing travel burdens and offering virtual consultations. In the context of breast cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals. It can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education.

Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining whether local practices offer virtual appointments. This requires examining practice websites, contacting offices directly, and reviewing insurance coverage for telemedicine services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve their breast cancer score by increasing accessibility and convenience for patients.

Mental health plays a critical role in the overall well-being of breast cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Access to mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care.

Evaluating the availability of mental health resources involves identifying local therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in oncology or women's health. It also includes assessing whether primary care practices or hospitals offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable emotional support and peer-to-peer guidance. The presence of these resources directly contributes to a higher breast cancer score.

To accurately assess the breast cancer score for Clifford, a comprehensive approach is needed. This involves gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. The analysis should consider the specific context of Clifford, including its rural location and potential challenges related to healthcare access.

The final breast cancer score should be based on a weighted system, assigning different values to each factor. For example, a higher physician-to-patient ratio might contribute positively to the score, while a lack of telemedicine adoption could negatively impact it. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer specialist or a certified mammography facility could significantly boost the score.

The breast cancer score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the healthcare ecosystem's ability to support individuals through their breast cancer journey. It highlights strengths, identifies areas for improvement, and provides valuable information for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Clifford, PA (ZIP code 18413) is essential for anyone seeking breast cancer care. Access to quality primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Clifford and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care physicians, hospitals, and other relevant healthcare facilities, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare accessibility and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.