18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.37 percent of the residents in 18439 has some form of health insurance. 46.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.69 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 18439 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18439. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 589 health care providers accessible to residents in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lakewood, PA (ZIP Code 18439)**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the Lakewood, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18439) area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights for residents seeking optimal healthcare and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

Lakewood, a community nestled within the Pocono Mountains, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Its relative remoteness compared to larger metropolitan areas can influence access to specialized medical services, including those related to breast cancer detection and treatment. The following assessment aims to capture the nuances of this environment.

**Primary Care Physician Availability & Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

A cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is the accessibility of primary care physicians. PCPs are often the first point of contact, crucial for routine screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Lakewood is paramount. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, combined with local demographic information, can help determine this ratio. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access.

The analysis should consider the number of practicing PCPs within the 18439 ZIP code, factoring in their specialties (e.g., internal medicine, family medicine). It should also account for the population size of Lakewood. This data, when compared to national averages, offers a benchmark for evaluating the area's primary care availability. Furthermore, the analysis should examine the average wait times for appointments with PCPs, as this directly impacts timely access to care.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics**

Identifying standout practices is crucial. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches, and a commitment to preventative medicine. The "Breast Cancer Score" should consider factors such as:

* **Accreditation:** Are practices accredited by recognized organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) for mammography services? Accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous quality standards.
* **Technology:** Do practices utilize advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of early-stage cancers?
* **Patient Education:** Does the practice offer comprehensive patient education materials about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and self-examination techniques?
* **Care Coordination:** Does the practice have established referral pathways to specialists (e.g., oncologists, surgeons) and support services?
* **Patient Reviews:** Online patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into patient experiences and satisfaction levels.

The analysis should highlight practices that excel in these areas, providing residents with information to make informed choices.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The "Breast Cancer Score" must assess the adoption of telemedicine services by local practices. This includes:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Do PCPs and specialists offer virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management?
* **Remote Monitoring:** Are there remote monitoring programs for patients undergoing treatment or at high risk?
* **Tele-Radiology:** Does the area utilize tele-radiology services, which allow radiologists to remotely interpret mammograms and other imaging studies?

Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate timely communication between patients and providers. Its presence or absence is a key factor in the overall score.

**Mental Health Resources and Breast Cancer Care**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental health. The "Breast Cancer Score" must evaluate the availability of mental health resources in Lakewood. This includes:

* **Mental Health Professionals:** Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists available in the area?
* **Support Groups:** Are there breast cancer support groups or other patient support networks?
* **Counseling Services:** Do local practices or hospitals offer counseling services specifically for breast cancer patients and their families?
* **Integration of Mental Health:** Do PCPs and specialists routinely screen for mental health concerns and make appropriate referrals?

Access to mental health support is crucial for patients navigating the emotional challenges of breast cancer. The score should reflect the availability and accessibility of these vital resources.

**Specific Considerations for Lakewood**

Given Lakewood's location, the analysis should consider:

* **Travel Distance:** The distance patients must travel to access specialized services (e.g., oncologists, radiation therapy centers).
* **Transportation Options:** The availability of public transportation or patient transportation services.
* **Community Awareness:** The level of community awareness about breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment.

These factors can influence the overall "Breast Cancer Score" and provide a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape.

**Conclusion: A Comprehensive Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Lakewood (ZIP code 18439) should be a holistic assessment, incorporating data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. It should identify areas of strength and areas needing improvement. By providing this comprehensive analysis, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for better access to breast cancer care in their community.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lakewood and surrounding areas, including the location of medical practices, specialist availability, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can transform complex healthcare data into interactive, easy-to-understand visualizations, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health. Visit CartoChrome today to discover the possibilities.