18466, Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18466, Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.54 percent of the residents in 18466 has some form of health insurance. 41.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.42 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 18466 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,096 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18466. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,222 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 853 health care providers accessible to residents in 18466, Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on assessing the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18466, specifically Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania. This evaluation considers factors like physician availability, primary care resources, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health support, all crucial components in a comprehensive breast cancer treatment and recovery journey. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, enabling informed decisions for patients and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental metric. Determining the precise number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, practicing within 18466 is the first step. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and professional medical directories are crucial. The US Census Bureau provides population data for the ZIP code. The ratio of physicians to the population offers a preliminary indication of accessibility. A lower ratio could indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare system.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of physicians within the area is significant. Are the available specialists clustered in a single practice or hospital system, or are they dispersed across different locations? This impacts patient choice and convenience. Geographic accessibility is paramount, especially for individuals facing the physical and emotional challenges of breast cancer treatment. Travel time to appointments, proximity to diagnostic facilities, and ease of access to support services all contribute to the overall patient experience.

Identifying standout practices within Tobyhanna requires a deeper dive. This includes evaluating the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, and the availability of specialized services. Practices with a multidisciplinary approach, integrating oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and support staff, often provide a more holistic and coordinated care experience. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) for breast centers can serve as a quality indicator, signifying adherence to rigorous standards of care. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.

The adoption of telemedicine presents a critical aspect of modern healthcare delivery. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups, can significantly enhance access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within 18466 involves examining the practices of local physicians and hospitals. Do they offer virtual appointments for follow-up care, medication management, or psychological support? The availability of remote monitoring technologies, such as wearable devices that track vital signs, can further improve patient outcomes and provide early warning signs of potential complications.

Mental health resources are an integral part of breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological toll of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be significant. Assessing the availability of mental health support within Tobyhanna is essential. This includes identifying psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups specializing in oncology. Are these resources readily accessible, affordable, and integrated into the overall care plan? Collaboration between oncologists and mental health professionals is crucial to ensure patients receive the comprehensive support they need. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can provide a valuable sense of community and shared experience.

Primary care availability within Tobyhanna is a foundational element of breast cancer care. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. Evaluating primary care availability involves assessing the number of PCPs practicing within the area, their acceptance of insurance plans, and their appointment availability. The presence of a robust primary care network ensures that patients have access to routine screenings, such as mammograms, and can receive timely referrals to specialists if necessary.

The quality of diagnostic imaging services, particularly mammography, is crucial. Assessing the availability of accredited mammography facilities within 18466 is essential. This involves evaluating the technology used, the qualifications of the radiologists, and the turnaround time for results. The availability of advanced imaging techniques, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), can improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection. Proximity to these facilities is also important, as it minimizes travel time and reduces patient anxiety.

The integration of patient navigation services can significantly improve the patient experience. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, providing support with appointments, insurance, financial assistance, and emotional support. Assessing the availability of patient navigation services within Tobyhanna is crucial. Do local hospitals or cancer centers offer dedicated navigators who can guide patients through their treatment journey?

The availability of clinical trials and research opportunities can provide access to innovative treatments and improve patient outcomes. Assessing the proximity to clinical trial centers and the participation of local physicians in research is important. This ensures that patients have access to the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 18466, Tobyhanna, requires a multifaceted assessment. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and analyzing mental health resource availability provides a comprehensive view. The availability of primary care, diagnostic imaging, patient navigation, and clinical trials further contributes to the overall picture. By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their care and local healthcare providers can identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Tobyhanna and surrounding areas, including physician locations, facility types, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their interactive maps can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the healthcare system with greater ease.