18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.39 percent of the residents in 18705 has some form of health insurance. 43.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.54 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 18705 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,167 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18705. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,990 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,985 health care providers accessible to residents in 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below focuses on assessing the quality of breast cancer care and primary care accessibility within the 18705 ZIP code, encompassing Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. This evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all critical components of comprehensive patient care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer patients. Data analysis reveals that the physician-to-patient ratio within 18705, while not critically low, presents a moderate challenge. This suggests that while access to primary care physicians and specialists exists, patients may encounter some delays in scheduling appointments, particularly for specialized breast cancer services. The availability of oncologists, radiologists specializing in breast imaging, and surgeons with breast cancer expertise is crucial. The analysis will identify specific practices that excel in these areas.

Standout medical practices are identified by evaluating several key metrics. These include the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like 3D mammography and breast MRI, the presence of multidisciplinary teams involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. One practice, known for its commitment to early detection and comprehensive breast cancer care, is recognized for its state-of-the-art imaging technology and a dedicated breast health navigator who guides patients through the complex treatment process. This practice consistently receives high patient satisfaction ratings and demonstrates a strong commitment to community outreach and education.

Telemedicine adoption is an increasingly important factor in healthcare accessibility, especially for patients who may face mobility challenges or live in areas with limited access to specialized care. The analysis assesses the extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in 18705 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are better positioned to provide timely and convenient care. The analysis identifies several primary care practices that offer virtual appointments, allowing patients to consult with their physicians from the comfort of their homes.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. The analysis evaluates the availability of mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, within the 18705 ZIP code. The presence of integrated mental health services within medical practices or readily accessible referrals to mental health professionals is considered a positive indicator. The analysis identifies several resources, including local support groups and therapists specializing in oncology, that provide vital emotional support to patients.

Primary care availability is a critical factor in early detection and management of breast cancer. Regular check-ups with a primary care physician are essential for screening and identifying potential issues. The analysis assesses the number of primary care physicians available within the 18705 ZIP code and their accessibility, considering factors like appointment availability and acceptance of various insurance plans. The analysis reveals that while the number of primary care physicians is adequate, some practices may experience higher patient volumes, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments.

Breast cancer screening rates are a key indicator of healthcare quality. The analysis examines the screening rates within the 18705 ZIP code, comparing them to national and state averages. Higher screening rates suggest a proactive approach to early detection, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes. The analysis identifies practices that actively promote breast cancer screening and provide resources to encourage women to undergo regular mammograms.

Patient education and support programs are essential components of comprehensive breast cancer care. The analysis evaluates the availability of patient education materials, support groups, and other resources that help patients navigate their diagnosis and treatment. Practices that offer educational programs, support groups, and access to patient navigators are considered to provide a higher level of care. The analysis highlights practices that actively engage in patient education and provide resources to help patients make informed decisions about their care.

The presence of clinical trials is an important indicator of a practice's commitment to advancing breast cancer treatment. The analysis assesses the availability of clinical trials within the 18705 ZIP code, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities. The analysis identifies practices that participate in clinical trials and provide information about these opportunities to their patients.

The analysis also considers the availability of financial assistance programs and resources for patients. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can create additional stress for patients. The analysis identifies resources that provide financial assistance, such as grants and payment plans, to help patients manage the costs of their care.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care and primary care availability in the 18705 ZIP code reveals a mixed picture. While the area benefits from the presence of some excellent medical practices and readily available resources, there are areas for improvement. The physician-to-patient ratio, while not alarming, necessitates attention to ensure timely access to appointments. The integration of telemedicine could be expanded to improve convenience and accessibility. Further efforts to increase screening rates and promote patient education are also needed.

The analysis highlights the importance of considering multiple factors when evaluating healthcare quality. It emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that addresses not only the medical aspects of care but also the emotional, psychological, and financial needs of patients.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 18705 ZIP code, including the specific locations of medical practices, the availability of resources, and the distribution of healthcare providers, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that visualize healthcare data, allowing you to easily identify and compare different practices and resources in the area. This is a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and anyone interested in improving healthcare access and quality in Wilkes-Barre.