18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.57 percent of the residents in 18708 has some form of health insurance. 31.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.17 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 18708 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,540 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18708. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,925 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,701 health care providers accessible to residents in 18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Shavertown, PA (ZIP Code 18708)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within the Shavertown, PA (ZIP code 18708) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, their practices, and associated resources. We will assess a hypothetical "Breast Cancer Score" based on several key factors, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for residents seeking accessible and effective healthcare.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system rests on accessible and proactive primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a crucial role in early detection through screening recommendations, risk assessment, and patient education. A high "Breast Cancer Score" hinges on the availability of these physicians and their commitment to breast health.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. In Shavertown, we must consider the population size and the number of active PCPs practicing within the 18708 ZIP code. A higher ratio of patients per physician can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and personalized care. Ideally, the ratio should be favorable, allowing physicians sufficient time to address patient concerns thoroughly, including those related to breast health. This includes time for detailed discussions about family history, lifestyle factors, and the importance of regular mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" also involves evaluating the practices themselves. Are the PCPs actively promoting breast cancer screening guidelines, such as recommending mammograms for women over 40, or earlier if there's a family history of the disease? Do the practices have established protocols for patient education, including providing information on self-breast exams and the signs and symptoms of breast cancer? Do they offer reminders for screening appointments? Practices demonstrating these proactive measures would significantly contribute to a higher score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers a convenient and accessible way for patients to consult with their physicians, especially for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, and addressing non-urgent concerns. In the context of breast cancer, telemedicine can be particularly valuable for patients who may have mobility issues, live in rural areas, or simply prefer the convenience of virtual consultations. Practices that embrace telemedicine, especially for breast cancer-related discussions, would receive a higher score.

Beyond the direct medical aspects, the availability of mental health resources is essential. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care models, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This includes providing information on support groups and counseling services. This integration would significantly boost the "Breast Cancer Score."

Identifying standout practices is key to understanding the quality of care in the area. These practices would ideally demonstrate a comprehensive approach to breast cancer care, encompassing proactive screening, patient education, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. They would have a clear understanding of the latest breast cancer screening guidelines and actively implement them. These practices would likely have a dedicated staff trained in breast health and a patient-centered approach.

Conversely, practices that may be lacking in these areas would negatively impact the "Breast Cancer Score." This might include practices with long wait times for appointments, limited patient education materials, or a lack of awareness regarding the latest screening recommendations. These practices might not have readily available resources for mental health support.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is dynamic and influenced by external factors. The availability of specialized breast cancer care, such as access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists, within a reasonable distance, is crucial. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated breast center would significantly enhance the score. Proximity to specialized facilities ensures patients have access to comprehensive care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical interventions, and adjuvant therapies.

The overall healthcare infrastructure in Shavertown, including the availability of diagnostic imaging services like mammography and ultrasound, also plays a significant role. The presence of readily accessible and high-quality imaging centers is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. Delays in accessing these services can negatively impact the "Breast Cancer Score."

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static number but a reflection of the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, practice policies, and the introduction of new technologies and treatments. Furthermore, patient feedback and satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and identify areas for improvement.

In conclusion, assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" for Shavertown, PA (18708) involves a multifaceted evaluation of primary care availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. The goal is to provide residents with a clear understanding of the resources available to them and to highlight areas where improvements can be made.

For a visual representation of this data, including the locations of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant information, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful and intuitive way to visualize the healthcare landscape of Shavertown, PA (18708).