18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18430 has some form of health insurance. 42.67 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 18430 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18430. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 971 health care providers accessible to residents in 18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides a hypothetical 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment for physicians in ZIP Code 18430, focusing on primary care availability in Herrick Center, Pennsylvania. This score is not based on actual data but serves as a framework for understanding the factors influencing access to breast cancer care and related support. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in accessible primary care. Herrick Center, a small community within the 18430 ZIP code, serves as a focal point for this analysis. The 'Breast Cancer Score' begins with evaluating the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). A low PCP-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, is a significant red flag. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for routine screenings and initial consultations.

To assess the availability, we need to estimate the population of Herrick Center and the number of practicing PCPs within the 18430 ZIP code. Publicly available data, such as US Census Bureau information and physician directories, would be used to estimate this ratio. A high ratio (e.g., a PCP for every 2,000 residents or more) would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a low ratio (e.g., a PCP for every 500 residents or fewer) would improve the score, indicating better access to care.

Beyond mere numbers, the 'Breast Cancer Score' considers the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have a strong focus on preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings? Practices that actively promote and facilitate mammograms, clinical breast exams, and patient education receive higher scores.

Standout practices within the 18430 ZIP code would be those that demonstrate exceptional commitment to patient care. This includes those with a dedicated nurse navigator who guides patients through the screening process, the diagnosis, and the treatment journey. Practices that maintain a strong relationship with local radiology centers and oncology specialists, ensuring seamless referrals and communication, also score favorably. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about breast cancer and promoting early detection, would be highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the 'Breast Cancer Score'. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments, prescription refills, and preliminary discussions, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering secure and convenient virtual appointments, receive higher scores. The ease of use, the quality of the technology, and the availability of technical support for patients are also considered.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The 'Breast Cancer Score' evaluates the availability of mental health support within the primary care practices and in the broader community. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive higher scores.

Furthermore, the score considers the availability of support groups, educational resources, and patient navigators who can provide emotional support and guidance. A strong emphasis on addressing the psychological impact of breast cancer, as evidenced by the presence of these resources, significantly boosts the score. The accessibility of these resources, whether through in-person sessions, online platforms, or community partnerships, is also evaluated.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving landscape of healthcare. Regular updates and revisions are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Data collection would involve a combination of publicly available information, physician surveys, and patient feedback.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios would involve cross-referencing population data with physician directories. Practice characteristics would be assessed through website reviews, phone calls, and potentially on-site visits. Telemedicine adoption would be evaluated by examining practice websites and inquiring about virtual appointment availability. Mental health resource assessment would involve researching local mental health providers, support groups, and patient navigator programs.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' also incorporates factors beyond the immediate medical setting. Access to transportation, financial assistance programs, and language services can all influence a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. The score considers the availability of these resources within the community, recognizing that a holistic approach to care is essential.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis for physicians in ZIP Code 18430, and primary care availability in Herrick Center, provides a framework for assessing the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, the score offers a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare landscape. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement, advocate for better resources, and ultimately, improve the lives of those affected by breast cancer.

For a visual representation of these data points and a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 18430 ZIP code, explore the power of spatial analysis. Visualize the distribution of physicians, identify areas with limited access to care, and pinpoint the location of crucial resources with CartoChrome maps.