18810, Athens, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18810, Athens, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.25 percent of the residents in 18810 has some form of health insurance. 37.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.64 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 18810 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18810. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,324 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,893 health care providers accessible to residents in 18810, Athens, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Athens, PA (ZIP Code 18810)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources within the Athens, PA (ZIP Code 18810) area. This assessment aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective, understanding that this is a complex issue that is not a single numerical score.

Athens, PA, and the surrounding areas, are largely served by Guthrie Clinic and UPMC, and this is a key factor in any analysis of healthcare availability. The presence of these larger healthcare systems can significantly influence the availability of specialists, diagnostic services, and treatment options for breast cancer. Understanding the geographic distribution of these resources is crucial.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

The foundation of good breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact, conducting screenings, referring patients to specialists, and coordinating care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally indicates better access to care. This analysis needs to look at the actual number of PCPs practicing within the 18810 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The patient population within this ZIP code and the surrounding communities needs to be considered.

Data from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be used to determine the population and the number of practicing PCPs. The results will show whether the area is adequately served or if there are shortages, particularly in rural areas. This will impact the score significantly. Rural areas often face challenges in recruiting and retaining physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. These include the availability of comprehensive breast cancer screening services (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), the expertise of the radiologists and oncologists, the availability of support services (patient navigators, support groups), and the patient satisfaction scores. Reviews from patients, data from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), and other sources can be used to identify and assess these practices.

Guthrie Clinic and UPMC's facilities should be evaluated based on these factors. The presence of dedicated breast cancer centers, offering a multidisciplinary approach to care (including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses), will significantly enhance the score. The availability of advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is also a critical consideration.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine has the potential to improve access to care, especially in rural areas. Its use can reduce the need for travel, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs and specialists in the 18810 area needs to be assessed. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to online patient portals.

The ability of patients to access specialists remotely, such as oncologists and surgeons, can improve the score. This is particularly important for patients who may have difficulty traveling long distances. The availability of telemedicine also depends on the patient's access to technology and internet connectivity.

**Mental Health Resources and the Patient Experience:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services.

The analysis should assess the availability of mental health professionals within the area and the integration of mental health services into the cancer care pathway. Are there partnerships between oncology practices and mental health providers? Are support groups available? The presence of these resources will significantly improve the score. Addressing the emotional and psychological needs of patients is essential for improving their quality of life and treatment outcomes.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Perspective:**

The final "Breast Cancer Score" perspective is not a single number but a composite assessment. It weighs the factors discussed above, considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The assessment should acknowledge the challenges of rural healthcare, such as physician shortages and limited access to specialized services.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served, including age, socioeconomic status, and health insurance coverage. These factors can influence access to care and treatment outcomes. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Athens, PA (ZIP Code 18810), from a breast cancer care perspective.

**Conclusion:**

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the availability and quality of breast cancer care in Athens, PA (ZIP Code 18810). It highlights the importance of accessible primary care, the role of standout practices, the potential of telemedicine, and the critical need for mental health resources.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care, consider using interactive mapping tools.
**Explore the power of spatial data visualization with CartoChrome maps to gain a visual understanding of healthcare access in Athens, PA and beyond.**