18622, Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18622, Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18622 has some form of health insurance. 27.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 94.34 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 18622 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 36 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18622. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 39 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,112 health care providers accessible to residents in 18622, Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care in Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18622), focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The ultimate goal is to empower residents with information to make informed decisions about their health and healthcare access.

The foundation of quality breast cancer care begins with robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, crucial for early detection, risk assessment, and referrals to specialists. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Huntington Mills, a rural community, this ratio is likely a significant factor. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, if available, would be essential to accurately determine the current physician-to-patient ratio in this specific ZIP code. This data would inform the overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for the area.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the distribution of these resources matters. Are PCPs concentrated in a single clinic or hospital, or are they dispersed throughout the community? This geographic accessibility impacts patient convenience and access. Consider factors such as transportation options for those without personal vehicles, which is particularly relevant in rural areas. Furthermore, it's important to evaluate the availability of female PCPs, as some patients may prefer a female physician for sensitive breast health concerns.

Standout practices, if any, would be those demonstrating excellence in patient care and community outreach. This includes practices with a history of early detection, patient education programs, and strong referral networks to specialists like oncologists and surgeons. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially interviews with healthcare professionals in the area. Look for practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and provide comprehensive patient education materials.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural communities. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring. The 'Breast Cancer Score' should consider the extent to which local PCPs utilize telemedicine platforms. Are virtual appointments readily available? Do practices offer online patient portals for communication and access to medical records? Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The 'Breast Cancer Score' must assess the availability of mental health services within the community. Are there therapists, counselors, or support groups available to patients? Are these resources integrated into the primary care practices, or are patients required to seek them out separately? The presence of integrated mental health services can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' would also consider the availability of specific breast cancer screening and diagnostic services. Does the community have access to mammography facilities? Are these facilities accredited and equipped with the latest technology? Are there options for 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve detection rates? The proximity and accessibility of these services are crucial for early detection. Furthermore, the availability of biopsy services and other diagnostic tools is vital for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Another key factor is the presence of patient navigation programs. These programs provide patients with a dedicated point of contact to help them navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Patient navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance. The availability of patient navigation programs can significantly improve the patient experience and reduce stress during a challenging time.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' should also evaluate the affordability of care. This includes factors such as insurance coverage, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of medications and treatments. The cost of care can be a significant barrier to access, particularly for low-income patients. The score should consider the availability of resources to help patients manage the financial burden of cancer treatment.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Huntington Mills requires a multi-faceted approach. The 'Breast Cancer Score' must consider physician-to-patient ratios, geographic accessibility, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the availability of screening and diagnostic services, patient navigation programs, and the affordability of care. This comprehensive evaluation will provide a more accurate picture of the healthcare landscape and empower residents to make informed decisions.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Huntington Mills, including physician locations, clinic accessibility, and potential areas for improvement, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a detailed, data-driven exploration of the healthcare ecosystem, providing valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers.