18635, Nescopeck, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18635, Nescopeck, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.88 percent of the residents in 18635 has some form of health insurance. 35.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.11 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 18635 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 731 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18635. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 801 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 769 health care providers accessible to residents in 18635, Nescopeck, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18635 and Primary Care in Nescopeck

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18635, encompassing the town of Nescopeck, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas. We will evaluate the availability and quality of primary care physicians, a critical component of early detection and ongoing support for breast cancer patients. Our assessment will consider physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score."

Nescopeck, a primarily rural community, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. The geographical limitations and potential for limited resources necessitate a careful examination of the existing infrastructure. The success of breast cancer treatment hinges on early detection, which is often facilitated by regular checkups and screenings conducted by primary care physicians. Therefore, the density and accessibility of these physicians are paramount.

One of the primary metrics we will examine is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio provides a basic understanding of the workload each physician carries and, by extension, the potential for appointment wait times and the amount of time dedicated to each patient. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to reduced access to care. We will attempt to ascertain the average patient load for primary care physicians in the area, comparing it to state and national averages. This comparison will help determine if the region is adequately served by primary care providers.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care is also crucial. We will investigate standout practices within the 18635 ZIP code, looking for those that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer screening and patient education. This includes assessing the availability of on-site mammography services, the implementation of patient reminder systems for screenings, and the provision of educational materials about breast cancer risk factors and early detection techniques. Practices that actively promote these services are likely to contribute positively to the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers a valuable solution to the challenges of rural healthcare, providing patients with access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources without the need for travel. We will evaluate the extent to which primary care practices in Nescopeck utilize telemedicine platforms. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring technologies, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan for patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Furthermore, the availability of mental health resources is a significant consideration. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the primary care setting or in the local community is essential. We will assess the availability of these resources, including the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan for breast cancer patients. Practices that prioritize mental health support are likely to contribute to a higher "Breast Cancer Score."

In evaluating the primary care landscape in Nescopeck, we must also consider the presence of any specialized breast cancer care providers. While primary care physicians are crucial for early detection and referrals, access to specialists, such as oncologists and breast surgeons, is vital for treatment. We will assess the proximity of these specialists to Nescopeck, considering travel times and the availability of transportation options. The presence of a comprehensive network of specialists, working in collaboration with primary care physicians, is a key indicator of a strong "Breast Cancer Score."

Another aspect of our analysis will be the cost of care. We will look at the acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers, including Medicare and Medicaid. The affordability of care is a critical factor in ensuring access for all residents, regardless of their financial circumstances. The availability of financial assistance programs and resources for patients struggling to afford care will also be considered. Practices that are transparent about their costs and offer financial assistance options are likely to contribute to a higher "Breast Cancer Score."

Patient satisfaction is another important metric. We will seek to gather information about patient experiences with local primary care providers. This will include assessing the quality of communication, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall level of patient satisfaction with the care they receive. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction are likely to provide a higher quality of care and contribute to a positive "Breast Cancer Score."

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the 18635 ZIP code will be a composite measure, taking into account all of the factors discussed above. The score will be based on a weighted average, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment. The higher the score, the better the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the region. This score will serve as a valuable tool for residents seeking information about healthcare options and for healthcare providers seeking to improve their services.

In conclusion, the analysis of breast cancer care in Nescopeck, Pennsylvania, requires a comprehensive evaluation of several key factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity of specialized care providers all contribute to the overall "Breast Cancer Score." By considering these factors, we can gain a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area and identify opportunities for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Nescopeck and gain deeper insights into the availability of primary care physicians, the proximity of specialists, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of geographic data, allowing you to explore the healthcare infrastructure in the 18635 ZIP code and beyond.