18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.44 percent of the residents in 18702 has some form of health insurance. 45.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.29 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 18702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,062 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18702. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,408 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,893 health care providers accessible to residents in 18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides an assessment of breast cancer care availability and related factors in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18702), focusing on primary care physicians and their impact. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive cancer care.

Wilkes-Barre, a city in Luzerne County, faces challenges common to many communities, including access to healthcare. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of early detection and effective management of breast cancer. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, facilitating screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing support.

Physician-to-patient ratios in 18702 are a key indicator. While precise, up-to-the-minute data fluctuates, general trends suggest a potential strain on resources. A higher ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. This can be particularly detrimental in breast cancer, where early detection significantly improves outcomes. The availability of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, is also crucial, but their effectiveness is often predicated on a robust primary care foundation.

Within Wilkes-Barre, certain practices may stand out for their commitment to breast cancer care. Identifying these “standout” practices requires a deeper dive into their services. Factors to consider include the proactive implementation of breast cancer screening guidelines, patient education initiatives, and collaboration with local hospitals and specialists. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and provide clear communication are more likely to foster trust and encourage regular screenings.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially reach a wider patient population and provide more convenient access to care, which is crucial for early detection and ongoing management of breast cancer.

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 emotional and psychological well-being. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care model, either through in-house counselors or referrals to external resources, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This support can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis.

The quality of breast cancer care is not solely determined by the number of physicians or the availability of specialists. It is also influenced by the overall healthcare infrastructure, including access to diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The proximity of these resources to primary care practices and patient residences is an important factor in determining the overall quality of care.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in Wilkes-Barre (18702) suggests a need for ongoing evaluation and improvement. While specific data on physician-to-patient ratios and practice characteristics is dynamic, the general trends highlight areas for potential concern. Strengthening the primary care infrastructure, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health support are crucial steps toward improving access to care and patient outcomes.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical aspect of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can lead to significant emotional distress. Practices that offer access to counselors, support groups, or other mental health services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This can help patients navigate the emotional challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment.

Collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and support services is essential for providing seamless and coordinated care. Effective communication and referral systems can ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate treatment. This collaborative approach is particularly important in breast cancer care, where a multidisciplinary team is often required.

The implementation of evidence-based screening guidelines is another key factor. Practices that adhere to these guidelines, such as the American Cancer Society's recommendations for mammograms, can help ensure that patients receive appropriate screenings at the recommended intervals. This proactive approach can lead to earlier detection and improved outcomes.

Patient education is also a crucial component of breast cancer care. Practices that provide patients with information about breast cancer risk factors, screening options, and treatment options can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health. This can also improve patient adherence to screening and treatment plans.

The ongoing monitoring of healthcare quality is essential. Regular assessments of physician-to-patient ratios, screening rates, and patient outcomes can help identify areas for improvement. This data can also be used to inform policy decisions and allocate resources effectively.

The overall success of breast cancer care in Wilkes-Barre depends on a multifaceted approach. It requires a strong primary care foundation, access to specialized care, the integration of mental health resources, and a commitment to patient education and support.

While this analysis offers a general overview, a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilkes-Barre can be achieved through the use of advanced mapping and data visualization tools. CartoChrome maps, for example, can provide a detailed visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and demographic data, enabling a more informed assessment of access to care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Wilkes-Barre and visualize the factors discussed, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Utilize the interactive maps to explore physician locations, demographics, and other relevant data to better understand the landscape of healthcare in your community.