18709, Luzerne, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18709, Luzerne, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.55 percent of the residents in 18709 has some form of health insurance. 49.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.24 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 18709 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 485 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18709. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 647 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,703 health care providers accessible to residents in 18709, Luzerne, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18709 and Primary Care Availability in Luzerne County

This analysis provides an assessment of breast cancer care resources and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 18709, located in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. The evaluation considers factors crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care for individuals facing breast cancer. This analysis doesn’t provide medical advice.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer management is early detection, which relies heavily on access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Luzerne County, and specifically within 18709, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs significantly impacts the accessibility of preventative screenings, such as mammograms. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions. Data on PCP availability, including the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and surrounding areas, is essential. This data must be coupled with information on insurance acceptance, as a significant portion of the population may face barriers to care based on their insurance coverage.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized breast cancer care within and near 18709 is critical. This includes oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast cancer, radiologists proficient in interpreting mammograms and other imaging modalities, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to the patient's location can greatly influence the speed and convenience of accessing treatment. The presence of comprehensive cancer centers, offering multidisciplinary care, is highly desirable. These centers typically provide a range of services under one roof, including diagnosis, treatment, support groups, and access to clinical trials.

Standout practices within the area should be identified based on their commitment to breast cancer care. This assessment should consider factors such as the volume of patients treated, the use of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, patient outcomes, and patient satisfaction. Identifying practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in these areas is crucial for guiding patients towards the best possible care. The presence of certified breast centers, meeting specific quality standards, is a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The extent to which practices in 18709 and surrounding areas utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education needs evaluation. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and enhance the overall patient experience. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients, including remote monitoring and virtual support groups, should be considered.

Mental health support is an integral component of breast cancer care. The emotional toll of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship can be significant. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the area is crucial. Integration of mental health services into cancer care pathways, ensuring patients have access to psychological support throughout their journey, is a key indicator of quality care. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors is also important.

The analysis must also consider the availability of resources for financial assistance and patient navigation. Navigating the complexities of healthcare, insurance, and treatment can be overwhelming. Patient navigators can help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and financial assistance programs. The presence of organizations that provide financial assistance for breast cancer patients can alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with treatment.

Specific examples of practices within 18709 and Luzerne County that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer care should be highlighted. This includes practices that have invested in advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and those that offer comprehensive support services, such as genetic counseling and survivorship programs. The reputation of individual physicians and their expertise in breast cancer treatment is also essential.

The analysis should also evaluate the availability of breast cancer screening programs, such as mobile mammography units, that target underserved populations. These programs can improve access to screening for women who may face barriers to accessing traditional healthcare settings. The presence of community outreach programs that raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection is also beneficial.

To summarize, this 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the resources available to breast cancer patients within ZIP code 18709 and Luzerne County. It will examine physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and financial assistance programs. The goal is to identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape, ultimately improving access to high-quality breast cancer care for all residents.

This analysis, by its nature, requires constant updating and verification. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, with new practices opening, technologies evolving, and resources shifting. Therefore, the data used in this analysis must be current and accurate. Regular updates will be essential to maintain the validity and relevance of the assessment.

The complexity of healthcare data makes visualization and analysis a challenge. To help you navigate the data and understand the spatial relationships between healthcare resources and patient populations, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can help you visualize the data, identify patterns, and make informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.