18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 18818 has some form of health insurance. 38.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.47 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 18818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 248 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 230 health care providers accessible to residents in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Friendsville, PA (ZIP Code 18818)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care resources within the Friendsville, PA (ZIP Code 18818) area, focusing on the availability and quality of care for patients. We will examine factors crucial to early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This assessment aims to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, ultimately informing residents about the resources available to them.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients and play a critical role in screening, risk assessment, and referral to specialists. Evaluating primary care availability in Friendsville involves assessing the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially limit the time a physician can dedicate to each patient. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care services. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments, can provide estimates of physician-to-population ratios within the ZIP code. This data, however, needs to be interpreted cautiously, as it may not fully capture the nuances of physician specialization or the impact of healthcare networks.

Furthermore, the presence of primary care practices that actively promote breast cancer screening and awareness is crucial. These practices often have dedicated protocols for mammogram referrals, patient education materials, and reminders for follow-up appointments. Identifying these standout practices involves researching their websites, reviewing patient testimonials, and potentially contacting them directly to inquire about their breast cancer care services. A practice that emphasizes preventative care, offers comprehensive screening options, and fosters a patient-centered approach is likely to be a valuable resource for women in the community.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialists is paramount. This includes oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals involved in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable distance from Friendsville is a key factor in determining the accessibility of specialized care. The lack of local specialists necessitates travel to larger medical centers, which can create logistical challenges and potentially delay access to care. Assessing the availability of specialists involves identifying the closest hospitals and clinics that offer comprehensive breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Friendsville. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices and hospitals. This includes determining whether these services are available for breast cancer-related appointments, such as consultations with oncologists or genetic counseling. Practices that embrace telemedicine can enhance patient convenience and improve access to specialized care, especially for patients who may have difficulty traveling.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for helping patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that can accompany this disease. Assessing mental health resources involves identifying local therapists and counselors who specialize in oncology or women's health, as well as support groups and community organizations that offer emotional support and educational programs.

The effectiveness of breast cancer care also depends on the quality of diagnostic imaging services. High-quality mammography equipment and experienced radiologists are essential for early detection. Evaluating the quality of imaging services involves researching the accreditation status of local imaging centers, such as those accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR). ACR accreditation signifies that the center meets rigorous standards for equipment, personnel, and quality assurance.

Furthermore, the availability of patient navigation services can significantly improve the patient experience. Patient navigators are healthcare professionals who help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, providing support with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance. The presence of patient navigation services within local hospitals or clinics can improve patient outcomes by ensuring that patients receive timely and coordinated care.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Friendsville, PA (ZIP Code 18818) requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources and diagnostic imaging services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to patients and to highlight areas where improvements are needed.

This analysis underscores the importance of data-driven decision-making in healthcare. For a more detailed visualization of healthcare resources in Friendsville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the healthcare landscape, enabling you to make informed decisions about your health and the healthcare resources available to you.