18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.51 percent of the residents in 18619 has some form of health insurance. 53.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.15 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 18619 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18619. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 42 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 185 health care providers accessible to residents in 18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 18619 & Primary Care in Hillsgrove

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18619 and examines primary care availability in the broader context of Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania, aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score, though not a singular numerical value, will be derived from evaluating several key factors crucial for effective breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive care model.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system rests on the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Hillsgrove, evaluating primary care availability involves more than just counting the number of doctors. It requires assessing the geographical distribution of practices, their acceptance of various insurance plans, and their capacity to handle a patient load. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can significantly hinder access to preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and timely referrals to specialists. This is particularly concerning in rural areas, where travel distances can be a barrier to care.

Within ZIP code 18619, the presence of specialized breast cancer care providers is a crucial factor. The analysis will consider the availability of oncologists, radiologists specializing in breast imaging, and surgeons experienced in breast cancer treatment. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, where these specialists collaborate, significantly improves patient outcomes. These teams can provide a coordinated approach to diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing care. The availability of these specialists, and the speed with which patients can access them, directly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score."

The adoption of telemedicine within the medical community is another critical component. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, provide access to specialists who may not be locally available, and offer mental health support. The extent to which practices in 18619 and Hillsgrove have embraced telemedicine will be evaluated, considering the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients.

Mental health support is a vital aspect of breast cancer care, yet often overlooked. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient’s emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is crucial. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the accessibility of these resources, considering the presence of support groups, individual therapy options, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. The availability of these resources can significantly improve a patient's quality of life during and after treatment.

Standout practices within the region are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This includes practices that utilize advanced diagnostic technologies, offer innovative treatment options, and prioritize patient-centered care. The analysis will identify practices that have received recognition for their quality of care, patient satisfaction, and commitment to research. These practices often serve as models for other providers and contribute to improving the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the region.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios in 18619 and Hillsgrove will be based on publicly available data, such as the US Census Bureau and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This data will be used to calculate the number of primary care physicians and specialists per capita, providing a measure of access to care. The analysis will also consider the demographics of the population, including age, socioeconomic status, and insurance coverage, as these factors can influence access to care.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption will involve reviewing the websites of local healthcare providers, conducting interviews with medical professionals, and analyzing patient feedback. This will provide insights into the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use, and the patient experience. The analysis will also consider the availability of technology, such as broadband internet access, which is essential for telemedicine to be effective.

The evaluation of mental health resources will involve identifying the number of mental health professionals in the area, the types of services offered, and the availability of support groups. The analysis will also consider the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, such as the availability of on-site therapists or referrals to mental health specialists.

The analysis will consider the presence of community resources, such as breast cancer support groups, educational programs, and outreach initiatives. These resources can provide valuable support to patients and their families, and contribute to improving the overall "Breast Cancer Score." The analysis will also assess the level of collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" assessment will be a qualitative evaluation based on the factors discussed above. It will provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the breast cancer care system in ZIP code 18619 and the surrounding Hillsgrove area. The score will highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and improving access to mental health resources.

In conclusion, understanding the nuances of healthcare accessibility, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support is crucial for assessing the quality of breast cancer care in a specific geographical area. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating these factors within ZIP code 18619 and the Hillsgrove area, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the current system.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and community support networks, explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care.