18438, Lakeville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18438, Lakeville, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.76 percent of the residents in 18438 has some form of health insurance. 57.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.73 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 18438 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 180 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18438. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 383 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,448 health care providers accessible to residents in 18438, Lakeville, Pennsylvania.

The analysis will focus on the quality of breast cancer care and primary care access in Lakeville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18438), considering physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, offering insights for residents seeking comprehensive care.

Lakeville, nestled within the Pocono Mountains, presents a unique healthcare environment. While the region boasts natural beauty, its relative remoteness can impact healthcare accessibility. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as a critical foundation for overall health, particularly in early breast cancer detection and management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of access. National averages often fail to capture the realities of rural areas. Analyzing the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents in 18438, compared to state and national benchmarks, reveals potential shortages or surpluses. This assessment would consider the geographic distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code, identifying areas with limited access. A low ratio might necessitate longer wait times for appointments and potentially limit the ability to establish a strong patient-physician relationship, which is essential for preventative care and early detection.

Beyond mere numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are vital. Are practices accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for appointments? Do they offer extended hours or weekend availability? These factors significantly influence the patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient convenience and offer comprehensive services, including preventative screenings, are more likely to be considered high-quality providers.

Breast cancer care, specifically, demands a coordinated approach. This includes access to PCPs who are vigilant about screening recommendations, timely referrals to specialists (radiologists, oncologists, surgeons), and support services. The presence of local mammography facilities and their proximity to primary care practices are critical. The ease with which patients can navigate the system, from initial screening to diagnosis and treatment, directly impacts their outcomes.

Standout practices within the Lakeville area would be those demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. This could include practices that have implemented robust patient communication systems, offer comprehensive health education resources, and actively participate in community outreach programs. These practices often foster a stronger patient-physician relationship, leading to better adherence to screening recommendations and earlier detection of potential issues.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within primary care practices in 18438, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual check-ups, remote monitoring) and the technological infrastructure in place, is essential. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to provide continuous care and improve patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is essential. Evaluating the availability of these resources within the community, including the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and the availability of support groups, is critical. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to these services are more likely to provide holistic care.

The quality of breast cancer care extends beyond the primary care setting. It encompasses the expertise of specialists, the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options, and the coordination of care among various healthcare providers. Assessing the presence of accredited breast cancer centers in the region, the availability of advanced imaging technologies (e.g., 3D mammography), and the utilization of evidence-based treatment protocols is important. The integration of these specialists and resources into a cohesive care plan ensures that patients receive the best possible care.

The level of patient education and support offered by healthcare providers also impacts the overall quality of care. Practices that provide patients with clear and concise information about breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment options empower them to make informed decisions about their health. The availability of patient navigators, who can guide patients through the complex healthcare system, is also valuable. These navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, and accessing financial assistance programs.

Analyzing the insurance landscape within 18438 is also important. The acceptance of various insurance plans by primary care practices and specialists can impact access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are more accessible to a diverse patient population. The availability of financial assistance programs for patients who are uninsured or underinsured is also a critical consideration.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care and primary care access in Lakeville (18438) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall coordination of care. This analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lakeville, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive and insightful visualizations that can help you better understand and navigate the healthcare options available in your community.