18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.59 percent of the residents in 18655 has some form of health insurance. 42.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.42 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 18655 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,007 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18655. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,327 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,217 health care providers accessible to residents in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Shickshinny, PA (ZIP Code 18655)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within the Shickshinny, PA (ZIP Code 18655) area. Our focus will be on evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), a critical first point of contact for women seeking breast cancer screening and support. We will also assess the broader healthcare ecosystem, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing a patient's overall experience and outcomes.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon a robust primary care infrastructure. PCPs are the gatekeepers to early detection, facilitating regular screenings, providing initial diagnoses, and guiding patients through the complexities of treatment. In Shickshinny, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of accessibility. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data on this ratio, derived from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, provides a baseline understanding of the local healthcare capacity.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. We must consider the practices’ commitment to preventative care, including the promotion of mammography and clinical breast exams. Practices that actively implement patient reminder systems for screenings, offer educational materials about breast cancer, and maintain strong relationships with local specialists demonstrate a higher level of care. Identifying these "standout practices" requires a multi-faceted approach. Patient reviews, physician ratings from platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, and information from local healthcare organizations provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in modern healthcare, offering the potential to improve access, especially in rural areas like Shickshinny. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is crucial for several reasons. It can reduce travel time for patients, making consultations and follow-up appointments more convenient. It can also connect patients with specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate area. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local PCPs involves examining their use of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools, and patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine are better positioned to provide timely and accessible care.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. Mental health support is an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The availability of mental health resources in Shickshinny, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore a critical factor in our analysis. We need to assess the presence of mental health professionals within the local healthcare system, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, and the availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients. Strong partnerships between PCPs and mental health providers are indicative of a more holistic and patient-centered approach to care.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized breast cancer care within a reasonable distance is a vital consideration. While PCPs are the initial point of contact, patients often require referrals to oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists. The proximity of these specialists, the quality of their services, and the ease with which patients can access them significantly impact the overall care experience. Assessing the referral networks of local PCPs and the availability of specialized breast cancer centers in the surrounding areas is essential for a comprehensive evaluation.

The analysis also considers the socio-economic factors that can influence access to care. Factors such as insurance coverage, transportation options, and the availability of financial assistance programs play a significant role in a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Understanding these factors allows for a more nuanced assessment of the challenges faced by patients in the Shickshinny area.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in ZIP Code 18655. This score will be based on a weighted evaluation of the factors discussed above, with a higher score indicating a more favorable healthcare environment for breast cancer patients. The weighting will be based on the relative importance of each factor, with physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, and the availability of mental health resources carrying significant weight.

The data gathered will be carefully analyzed to identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system. This analysis will inform recommendations for improving breast cancer care in Shickshinny, such as promoting the adoption of telemedicine, increasing the availability of mental health services, and supporting the development of stronger referral networks.

By understanding the current state of breast cancer care in Shickshinny, we can work towards creating a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive treatment, and compassionate support for all patients. This analysis serves as a starting point for ongoing efforts to improve the lives of women in the community.

For a detailed visual representation of the data, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic information, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas where improvements are needed.