18435, Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18435, Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18435 has some form of health insurance. 61.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.46 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 18435 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 106 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18435. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 554 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 586 health care providers accessible to residents in 18435, Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Lackawaxen, PA (ZIP Code 18435)**

Evaluating the landscape of breast cancer care in Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18435) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of specialized medical professionals but also the broader context of primary care access, mental health support, and the adoption of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on a robust primary care infrastructure. In Lackawaxen, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population, can create significant barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment. Patients may face prolonged wait times for appointments, hindering early detection, which is paramount in breast cancer management. Furthermore, a lack of PCPs can lead to a fragmented healthcare experience, as patients may struggle to establish a consistent relationship with a physician who can monitor their overall health and coordinate care.

Primary care availability directly impacts the ability to receive regular screenings, such as mammograms, and to navigate the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. A strong primary care network ensures that patients have a medical home where they can receive preventative care, referrals to specialists, and ongoing support. Conversely, a weak primary care system can result in delayed diagnoses, advanced-stage cancers, and poorer patient outcomes.

**Specialized Care and Standout Practices**

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized medical professionals, such as oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, is crucial. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable geographic radius is a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Patients in Lackawaxen should ideally have access to a multidisciplinary team of experts who can provide comprehensive care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical interventions, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and ongoing monitoring.

Identifying standout practices within the area is also important. These practices may excel in specific areas of breast cancer care, such as advanced imaging techniques, minimally invasive surgical procedures, or patient-centered care models. Assessing factors like patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based treatment protocols, and participation in clinical trials can help identify practices that are committed to providing high-quality care. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, offering a range of services under one roof, would significantly boost the score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Modern Healthcare Technologies**

The adoption of telemedicine and other modern healthcare technologies is becoming increasingly important in rural areas like Lackawaxen. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty traveling to distant medical facilities.

The Breast Cancer Score should account for the availability of telemedicine services, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for seamless information sharing, and the integration of patient portals for convenient access to medical information and communication with healthcare providers. Practices that embrace technology to enhance patient care and streamline administrative processes deserve higher ratings.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. Access to counselors, therapists, and support groups can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis.

The score should consider the presence of mental health professionals who specialize in oncology, the availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide comprehensive supportive care will receive higher ratings.

**Specific Considerations for Lackawaxen (ZIP Code 18435)**

Evaluating the healthcare landscape in Lackawaxen requires a granular approach. Research should focus on identifying the specific healthcare providers serving the area, including their specialties, locations, and patient reviews. Data on the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code, as well as the availability of specialists in nearby towns and cities, is crucial.

The analysis should also assess the availability of transportation options for patients who may need to travel to access specialized care. Rural areas often face challenges in terms of transportation, and this can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. The Breast Cancer Score should reflect the accessibility of transportation options, such as public transportation, ride-sharing services, or patient transportation programs.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score for Lackawaxen (ZIP code 18435) is not a static number; it is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare ecosystem's ability to provide comprehensive, patient-centered breast cancer care. It is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lackawaxen and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and making informed decisions about your health and well-being.