18473, White Mills, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18473, White Mills, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.50 percent of the residents in 18473 has some form of health insurance. 60.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.17 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 18473 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 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18473. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 81 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,013 health care providers accessible to residents in 18473, White Mills, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18473 & Primary Care Availability in White Mills**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 18473, encompassing White Mills, Pennsylvania, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. A "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a standardized metric, but for this analysis, it will represent a composite evaluation of factors crucial for timely detection, effective treatment, and supportive care for breast cancer patients. These factors include access to primary care, the availability of specialists, the integration of technology, and the provision of mental health resources. This analysis will focus on the specific area of White Mills and its surrounding region, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. White Mills' primary care availability is critical. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. Ideally, a low ratio indicates greater access to primary care physicians, allowing for more frequent check-ups, preventative screenings, and early detection. Researching the current physician-to-patient ratio in the area is essential. Are there enough primary care doctors to serve the population adequately? Are appointment wait times reasonable? These factors directly impact the ability of individuals to receive timely care, including referrals for mammograms and other diagnostic tests.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Do local primary care practices actively promote breast cancer screening guidelines? Do they provide patient education materials? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with specialist practices are also vital. Seamless information sharing between primary care providers and specialists ensures continuity of care and reduces the potential for errors or delays.

Specialist availability is another crucial component of the Breast Cancer Score. The presence of oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons within a reasonable distance from White Mills is essential. Travel time to these specialists can significantly impact a patient's experience, particularly during diagnosis and treatment. Factors to consider include the number of specialists, their board certifications, and their experience in treating breast cancer. Are there dedicated breast cancer centers or clinics in the area? These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together various specialists to provide comprehensive care.

The adoption of technology significantly influences the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine, for instance, can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in White Mills to consult with specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, counseling, and receiving test results. The availability of online patient portals, where patients can access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their healthcare providers, also contributes to a positive patient experience. The use of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), can improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet vital, aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for patients to cope with the psychological challenges of the disease. Do local healthcare providers offer mental health support services? Are there support groups available for breast cancer patients and their families? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve a patient's quality of life.

Identifying standout practices in the White Mills area is important. These practices may demonstrate excellence in various areas, such as patient communication, early detection, treatment outcomes, or patient satisfaction. Analyzing patient reviews, conducting interviews with healthcare professionals, and examining publicly available data can help identify these high-performing practices. These practices often serve as models for other healthcare providers, promoting best practices and improving the overall quality of care.

One area to investigate is the integration of patient navigation services. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, providing support and guidance throughout the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery process. These navigators can help patients schedule appointments, understand medical information, and access financial assistance. The presence of patient navigation services can significantly improve a patient's experience and outcomes.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of resources beyond medical care. This includes access to financial assistance programs, support groups, and educational materials. The ability to access these resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to manage their care and cope with the challenges of the disease. The presence of community outreach programs and educational initiatives also contributes to a higher score.

In conclusion, evaluating the Breast Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 18473, particularly focusing on primary care availability in White Mills, requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, the adoption of technology, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure and identify areas for improvement. This analysis emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to breast cancer care, focusing not only on medical treatment but also on the emotional, social, and financial well-being of patients.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in White Mills and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for analyzing and understanding geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community and make informed decisions about your health.