18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.84 percent of the residents in 18517 has some form of health insurance. 47.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.95 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 18517 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 960 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18517. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,054 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,981 health care providers accessible to residents in 18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis examines breast cancer care within ZIP code 18517, focusing on physician availability, particularly primary care, in Taylor, Pennsylvania. This assessment considers several key factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape concerning breast cancer care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Taylor, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, facilitating early detection and intervention, which are vital for positive outcomes. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within Taylor, and comparing this to the town’s population, provides a baseline for assessing access. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer insights into these ratios.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are essential. This includes the ability of patients to schedule appointments promptly, the availability of evening and weekend hours, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Practices that prioritize patient communication and education, offering clear explanations of breast cancer screening guidelines and treatment options, are particularly valuable. The presence of multilingual staff can also significantly improve access for diverse patient populations.

Identifying standout medical practices in the area is also critical. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This might include practices that have invested in advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of early-stage cancers. Furthermore, practices that have established strong referral networks with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists involved in breast cancer treatment contribute to a more coordinated and effective approach to care. Reviews from patients and professional recognitions can help identify these leading practices.

Telemedicine has rapidly transformed healthcare delivery, and its impact on breast cancer care is significant. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients. This can be especially beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Taylor, and by specialists who serve the area, is a key indicator of access and innovation. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience and reduce barriers to care. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered and the ease of use, is important.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is an important factor in assessing the quality of care. Primary care practices that integrate mental health screening and referrals into their routine care demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. Identifying the presence of these resources and their accessibility within the local healthcare system is essential.

The proximity of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, to Taylor is another important consideration. Patients often require specialized care, and the ease of access to these specialists can significantly impact their outcomes. Analyzing the distance to the nearest cancer centers and the availability of transportation options are important factors. Strong referral networks between primary care physicians and specialists contribute to a more seamless and coordinated approach to care.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in ZIP code 18517, specifically in Taylor, requires a comprehensive evaluation of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity of specialists all play a role in determining the accessibility and quality of care. This evaluation should inform efforts to improve healthcare delivery in the area, ensuring that patients have access to the best possible care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive analysis of breast cancer care in Taylor, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. It is not simply about the number of doctors, but also the quality of care, the integration of technology, and the availability of support services. A thorough assessment of these factors can help identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients receive the comprehensive care they need.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Taylor and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to resources, we recommend exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the data discussed, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and facilitating informed decision-making.