18460, South Sterling, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18460, South Sterling, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.09 percent of the residents in 18460 has some form of health insurance. 88.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.22 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 18460 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 42 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18460. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,629 health care providers accessible to residents in 18460, South Sterling, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: South Sterling, PA (ZIP Code 18460)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within the South Sterling, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18460) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources. The goal is to provide an informed "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing support.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and responsive primary care. Early detection is paramount, and PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients. A high-quality PCP will emphasize preventative care, including regular breast exams, and will be well-versed in recommending appropriate screening mammograms based on individual risk factors and age guidelines. The availability of PCPs, measured by physician-to-patient ratios, significantly impacts access. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed appointments, hindering timely screenings and potentially delaying diagnoses.

In South Sterling, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs requires careful examination. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from local healthcare networks like Geisinger and Commonwealth Health, is crucial. A below-average ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, would negatively impact the "Breast Cancer Score." Conversely, a favorable ratio would indicate better access to care, boosting the score. This analysis would incorporate data on the number of practicing PCPs, the population of the ZIP code, and any documented instances of physician shortages or recruitment efforts.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is critical. This involves assessing the practices of individual physicians and healthcare groups within the area. Standout practices are those that demonstrate a proactive approach to breast cancer screening and patient education. This includes a commitment to:

* **Comprehensive Patient Education:** Providing patients with clear and concise information about breast cancer risk factors, self-exams, and the importance of regular screenings.
* **Proactive Screening Reminders:** Implementing systems to remind patients of upcoming mammogram appointments, ensuring adherence to screening guidelines.
* **Efficient Referral Processes:** Establishing streamlined referral pathways to qualified radiologists and specialists for further evaluation of suspicious findings.
* **Collaborative Care:** Fostering strong communication and collaboration between PCPs, radiologists, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals involved in breast cancer care.

Identifying these standout practices involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing practice websites for information on breast cancer screening protocols, and potentially consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to these elements would receive higher marks in the "Breast Cancer Score."

Telemedicine adoption is another vital factor influencing the "Breast Cancer Score." Telemedicine offers several advantages in breast cancer care, including:

* **Convenience:** Allowing patients to consult with their PCPs or specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for those in rural areas like South Sterling.
* **Increased Access:** Expanding access to care for patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments due to geographic limitations, mobility issues, or other constraints.
* **Improved Communication:** Facilitating virtual consultations for discussing screening results, treatment options, and ongoing care plans.

The analysis would assess the extent to which PCPs and healthcare providers in the area have adopted telemedicine technologies. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring capabilities, and the use of secure online portals for communication and information sharing. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine would contribute positively to the "Breast Cancer Score."

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health support services in the South Sterling area is therefore a significant factor in this analysis.

This involves assessing the availability of:

* **Mental Health Professionals:** The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors who specialize in oncology or women's health.
* **Support Groups:** The existence of local or online support groups where patients can connect with others who have experienced breast cancer.
* **Counseling Services:** The availability of individual or group counseling services specifically tailored to address the emotional and psychological needs of breast cancer patients.
* **Integration of Mental Health into Care:** Assessing whether PCPs and other healthcare providers routinely screen for mental health concerns and refer patients to appropriate resources.

The "Breast Cancer Score" would be negatively impacted by a lack of mental health resources. Conversely, the presence of readily accessible and comprehensive mental health support services would significantly enhance the score. This analysis would involve researching local mental health providers, exploring community resources, and assessing the integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare ecosystem.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a single, definitive number. It is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. It is a qualitative evaluation, informed by quantitative data where available, and designed to provide a nuanced understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in South Sterling, PA. The final score would reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to residents of ZIP code 18460.

For a deeper dive into the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of PCPs, hospitals, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can visually represent the data discussed in this analysis, providing a clear and comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.