18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.89 percent of the residents in 18465 has some form of health insurance. 43.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.68 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 18465 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 191 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18465. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 280 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 262 health care providers accessible to residents in 18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on breast cancer care within ZIP Code 18465, encompassing Thompson, Pennsylvania, and assesses the availability and quality of primary care, a critical component of early detection and ongoing support. This evaluation considers several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital elements in providing comprehensive breast cancer care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Thompson (ZIP Code 18465) presents a significant challenge. Rural areas often struggle with a shortage of healthcare professionals, and this can impact access to timely screenings, diagnoses, and treatment. A low physician-to-patient ratio means fewer doctors are available to serve a larger population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care. This scarcity of primary care physicians directly affects the ability of individuals to receive regular breast cancer screenings and follow-up care, crucial for early detection and improved outcomes.

Identifying "standout practices" within this area is crucial. These practices, if present, would demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. They might be characterized by several key features. First, they would prioritize patient education and awareness campaigns, actively promoting breast cancer screening guidelines and self-examination techniques. Second, they would likely offer state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, such as digital mammography and potentially even access to 3D mammography (tomosynthesis). Third, these practices would have a well-coordinated care team, including primary care physicians, radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and support staff, working collaboratively to provide seamless care. Fourth, they would demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, focusing on individual needs and preferences. Finally, they would actively participate in clinical trials or research, contributing to advancements in breast cancer treatment and prevention. The absence of such practices would be a significant concern.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be a game-changer in rural areas. It can bridge the geographical gap, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources without having to travel long distances. For breast cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with oncologists, provide access to support groups, and enable remote monitoring of symptoms and side effects. The level of telemedicine adoption within Thompson's primary care practices would significantly impact the accessibility and convenience of care for breast cancer patients. A high level of adoption would be a positive indicator, while limited adoption would highlight a potential area for improvement.

The availability of mental health resources is equally important. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The presence of readily available mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is crucial for helping patients cope with the emotional burden of the disease. Primary care practices should ideally have established referral pathways to mental health professionals or, even better, have mental health services integrated directly into their practice. The absence of these resources would be a significant deficiency in the overall care provided to breast cancer patients.

Evaluating the quality of breast cancer care in Thompson (ZIP Code 18465) requires a holistic approach. It's not just about the availability of medical services; it's about the entire patient experience. This includes the ease of access to care, the quality of communication between healthcare providers and patients, the level of support provided, and the overall patient satisfaction. The evaluation must consider the integration of services, the coordination of care, and the commitment to patient education and empowerment.

The assessment must also consider the specific challenges faced by the population in Thompson. Rural communities often have unique demographic profiles and socioeconomic factors that can impact healthcare access and outcomes. These factors, such as age, income, education level, and access to transportation, must be taken into account when evaluating the quality of breast cancer care.

The absence of robust primary care infrastructure in Thompson, coupled with the challenges of rural healthcare, presents a potential disadvantage for breast cancer patients. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical factors that require careful consideration. Any assessment should identify areas for improvement and recommend strategies to enhance the quality of care for breast cancer patients in this community.

The analysis needs to determine the extent to which primary care physicians are actively involved in breast cancer screening and early detection. Are they consistently recommending mammograms based on established guidelines? Are they providing patient education about breast cancer risk factors and prevention strategies? Are they actively referring patients to specialists when necessary? The level of involvement of primary care physicians in these activities directly impacts the likelihood of early detection and improved outcomes.

Furthermore, the evaluation should assess the level of collaboration and communication between primary care physicians, radiologists, oncologists, and other healthcare providers involved in breast cancer care. A well-coordinated care team is essential for providing seamless and effective care. This includes sharing patient information, coordinating treatment plans, and ensuring that patients receive the appropriate follow-up care.

The overall assessment should also consider the patient's perspective. Patient satisfaction surveys, feedback mechanisms, and patient testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided. These perspectives can highlight areas where the system is working well and areas where improvements are needed.

In conclusion, the availability and quality of breast cancer care in Thompson (ZIP Code 18465) are influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach, involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all individuals in Thompson have access to high-quality, patient-centered breast cancer care.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can visualize data on physician locations, hospital accessibility, and other relevant factors, providing a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape in Thompson and surrounding areas.