18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.32 percent of the residents in 18634 has some form of health insurance. 43.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.64 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 18634 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,895 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18634. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,367 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,989 health care providers accessible to residents in 18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Nanticoke, PA (ZIP Code 18634)

This analysis provides a localized assessment of breast cancer care resources within Nanticoke, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18634). It examines the availability of primary care physicians, assesses physician-to-patient ratios, highlights standout practices, explores telemedicine adoption, and evaluates the availability of mental health support, all crucial factors in a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape as it pertains to breast cancer care.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible and responsive primary care. In Nanticoke, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. A low concentration of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for initial screenings and referrals. Conversely, a robust primary care network facilitates early detection, a key determinant of successful treatment outcomes. Evaluating the density of PCPs per capita within the 18634 ZIP code, alongside the average wait times for appointments, provides a crucial starting point for assessing the overall health of the local healthcare system. Data on the number of PCPs practicing within the specified ZIP code, coupled with information on their patient load and appointment availability, is essential for a thorough evaluation.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric in evaluating the accessibility of healthcare services. A high ratio (fewer physicians per patient) can strain the system, leading to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and potentially, a decline in the quality of care. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates a more accessible system, allowing for more personalized attention and potentially, earlier interventions. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio within the 18634 ZIP code, specifically for PCPs, is paramount. This requires analyzing the number of PCPs actively practicing in the area and comparing it to the population of Nanticoke. This ratio, when compared to regional and national averages, provides a crucial benchmark for understanding the local healthcare landscape.

Identifying standout practices within Nanticoke that specialize in breast cancer care is a critical element of this analysis. These practices often demonstrate excellence in various aspects of care, including patient education, screening protocols, diagnostic accuracy, and treatment options. Evaluating these practices involves assessing their patient outcomes, their adoption of advanced technologies, and their commitment to patient-centered care. This includes looking at the availability of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), the presence of dedicated breast cancer specialists (e.g., breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists), and the practice's participation in clinical trials. Reviews from patients, and data on the practices' adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment, are also important indicators of quality.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and consultations without requiring them to travel long distances. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within the 18634 ZIP code is crucial. This involves identifying which practices offer telemedicine services for breast cancer-related consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Evaluating the types of telemedicine platforms used (e.g., video conferencing, remote monitoring), the accessibility of these platforms for patients, and the availability of technical support are all relevant factors. Increased telemedicine adoption suggests a healthcare system that is adapting to the needs of its patients and improving accessibility.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. This analysis evaluates the availability of mental health services within Nanticoke, specifically those tailored to the needs of cancer patients. This includes assessing the presence of oncology social workers, therapists specializing in cancer-related issues, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan, whether through on-site counseling or referrals to external providers, is an important indicator of a patient-centered approach. The accessibility of these resources, including their cost and availability, significantly impacts the quality of care.

In conclusion, this analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in Nanticoke, PA (ZIP code 18634). The availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. Understanding these factors is essential for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

For a dynamic and interactive visualization of the healthcare resources in Nanticoke, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, explore the potential of CartoChrome maps. Utilize the interactive mapping capabilities to explore the healthcare landscape and visualize the data discussed in this analysis.