18431, Honesdale, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18431, Honesdale, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.37 percent of the residents in 18431 has some form of health insurance. 46.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.42 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 18431 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,389 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18431. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,004 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 998 health care providers accessible to residents in 18431, Honesdale, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Honesdale, PA (ZIP Code 18431)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Honesdale, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18431) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, offering insight into the accessibility and quality of care for individuals facing this disease within the specified geographic area. This analysis, however, is based on publicly available information and does not constitute medical advice.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) act as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through screenings and referrals. In Honesdale, the availability of PCPs is a key indicator. A higher concentration of PCPs per capita generally translates to better access to preventative care, including mammograms and clinical breast exams. However, simply counting the number of doctors is insufficient. We must consider the patient-to-physician ratio, a metric reflecting the average number of patients each PCP is responsible for. A lower ratio suggests physicians have more time to dedicate to each patient, potentially leading to more thorough examinations and personalized care.

Unfortunately, obtaining precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios for a specific ZIP code is challenging. Data often lags or is aggregated at broader geographic levels. However, publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. Furthermore, local hospital systems, such as Wayne Memorial Hospital, are critical players. Their websites often list affiliated physicians, allowing for an assessment of the overall physician presence in the area. Direct contact with the hospital can also yield valuable information on referral pathways and access to specialized services.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are PCPs actively promoting breast cancer screening guidelines? Do they have established referral networks to specialists, including radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons? Do they participate in continuing medical education to stay current with the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment? Assessing these factors requires examining the practices of individual physicians. Online reviews, while subjective, can offer insights into patient experiences. Information on practice websites regarding screening protocols, specialized services, and affiliations with cancer centers is also vital.

The presence of specialized breast cancer services within Honesdale is another critical component of the "Breast Cancer Score." This includes access to:

* **Diagnostic Imaging:** Mammography, ultrasound, and MRI capabilities are essential for accurate diagnosis. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), can significantly improve detection rates.
* **Surgical Oncology:** The presence of breast surgeons capable of performing lumpectomies, mastectomies, and reconstructive surgeries is crucial.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to oncologists specializing in breast cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and hormonal therapies, is paramount.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Availability of radiation therapy services, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy, is vital for comprehensive care.

Wayne Memorial Hospital is a central hub for medical services in Honesdale. Evaluating the services offered at the hospital, including its affiliations with cancer centers and its commitment to breast cancer care, is essential. The hospital’s website, along with publicly available reports, can provide valuable data on the scope of breast cancer services available.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Honesdale. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients. The degree to which local physicians and hospitals have embraced telemedicine for breast cancer care, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of side effects, and access to educational resources, is a key factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." This includes the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists.

The integration of mental health resources into breast cancer care is often overlooked, yet it is vital. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in working with cancer patients is crucial. This includes:

* **Psychological Support:** Access to therapists and counselors who can provide emotional support and coping strategies.
* **Support Groups:** The presence of local support groups or online forums where patients can connect with others facing similar challenges.
* **Psychiatric Services:** Access to psychiatrists for medication management and treatment of related mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.

Assessing mental health resources requires examining the affiliations of local physicians and hospitals, as well as identifying any partnerships with mental health providers. Local community organizations and cancer support groups can also provide valuable information on the availability of mental health services.

Standout practices in Honesdale would likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This would include:

* **Early Detection Programs:** Proactive outreach to patients to encourage screening and early detection.
* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** Collaboration among primary care physicians, radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists to provide coordinated care.
* **Patient Education and Support:** Providing patients with educational resources, support groups, and access to mental health services.
* **Telemedicine Integration:** Utilizing telemedicine to improve access to care and reduce travel burdens.
* **Advanced Technologies:** Employing advanced imaging and treatment technologies to improve outcomes.

These practices would likely be associated with higher patient satisfaction scores and improved clinical outcomes. Identifying these standout practices requires a combination of research, including examining physician websites, reviewing patient testimonials, and contacting local healthcare providers.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Honesdale, PA (ZIP code 18431) will be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a more comprehensive range of services, and a greater emphasis on patient-centered care. A lower score would indicate potential areas for improvement, such as a need for more PCPs, improved access to specialists, increased telemedicine adoption, and greater integration of mental health resources. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in Honesdale.

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