18419, Factoryville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18419, Factoryville, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.85 percent of the residents in 18419 has some form of health insurance. 42.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.92 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 18419 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 887 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18419. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,048 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,239 health care providers accessible to residents in 18419, Factoryville, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Factoryville, PA (ZIP Code 18419)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within Factoryville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18419), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike. This score, though not a numerical value, represents a qualitative evaluation of the landscape of care.

Factoryville, a small rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The distance to larger medical centers and the demographics of the area significantly influence the availability and quality of care. A robust primary care foundation is crucial for early detection and effective management of breast cancer.

The cornerstone of breast cancer care often begins with the PCP. Regular screenings, risk assessments, and referrals for mammograms are critical. Assessing the availability of PCPs in 18419 is paramount. While the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires data beyond the scope of this analysis (and would fluctuate with the changing demographics), a preliminary investigation suggests potential limitations. Rural areas often experience a shortage of physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. This scarcity can be a significant hurdle in timely breast cancer detection.

Standout practices within the area, or those serving the area, would be those demonstrating a proactive approach to breast cancer care. This includes practices actively promoting screening guidelines, providing patient education materials, and facilitating seamless referrals to specialists. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles, patient reviews, and performance metrics. Such data, if available, could reveal practices excelling in patient communication, offering comprehensive care plans, and demonstrating a commitment to early detection and intervention.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to bridge the gap in healthcare access in Factoryville. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in educational sessions. The availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists can significantly improve access to expert opinions and personalized treatment plans. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring, would receive a higher score in this assessment. This is especially important for patients who may face transportation challenges or limited mobility.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans, offering referrals to therapists or providing access to support groups, would be viewed favorably. This integration underscores a holistic approach to patient well-being, recognizing the importance of mental health in the healing process.

Furthermore, access to information about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options is critical. Practices that actively disseminate this information through patient education materials, online resources, and community outreach programs contribute to a higher overall score. This commitment to patient empowerment allows individuals to make informed decisions about their health and actively participate in their care.

The analysis of breast cancer care in Factoryville, PA, reveals a complex picture. While the rural setting presents challenges in physician availability and access to specialized services, opportunities exist to leverage technology and community resources to improve care. Practices that prioritize early detection, patient education, telemedicine, and mental health support are likely to be considered ‘standout’ in this assessment. Further investigation, including data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice performance metrics, and patient feedback, is needed to develop a more granular and definitive 'Breast Cancer Score.' The focus must be on identifying and supporting practices that are committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.

The importance of this analysis extends beyond the individual patient. It provides valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare landscape, stakeholders can work together to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately improve outcomes for those affected by breast cancer. This collaborative approach is crucial for building a resilient and responsive healthcare system in Factoryville and similar rural communities.

The availability of accurate and up-to-date geographic data is essential for understanding the healthcare landscape. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital facilities, and support services. By visualizing this data, residents and healthcare providers can gain a clearer understanding of the available resources and identify areas where improvements are needed.