18823, Harford, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18823, Harford, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.72 percent of the residents in 18823 has some form of health insurance. 61.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.56 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 18823 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18823. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 80 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 155 health care providers accessible to residents in 18823, Harford, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18823 and primary care accessibility in Harford County necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of breast cancer care. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify potential areas for improvement.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In ZIP code 18823, a detailed investigation is required to determine the specific number of primary care physicians and specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, relative to the population. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can be used to calculate these ratios. A low physician-to-patient ratio, especially for specialists crucial in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, suggests potential bottlenecks in care. Delays in appointments, diagnostic procedures, and treatment initiation can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Harford County’s overall primary care availability is crucial. The county's geographic size and population distribution must be considered. Rural areas may face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, leading to disparities in access. Analyzing the distribution of primary care practices across the county, considering factors like proximity to public transportation and the presence of underserved populations, is essential. This analysis should also incorporate data on the number of patients each primary care physician sees, as this can influence the quality of care.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various aspects of care. Practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, including regular mammograms and breast cancer screenings, should be highlighted. Patient satisfaction surveys, if available, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and offer cutting-edge treatments should be recognized. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and nurses, is crucial for comprehensive breast cancer care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and provide remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring, should be commended. The availability of telemedicine can reduce travel burdens for patients, especially those undergoing treatment or follow-up care. However, the digital divide must be considered, as not all patients have equal access to technology and reliable internet connectivity.

Mental health resources are integral to breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for supporting patients throughout their journey. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks for mental health support should be recognized. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community.

Specific examples within ZIP code 18823 and Harford County are needed to make this analysis truly impactful. Identifying specific practices, hospitals, or clinics that excel in these areas is critical. For instance, a practice that has a high rate of early-stage breast cancer detection through regular screenings would be considered a standout. A hospital that offers a comprehensive breast cancer program with a multidisciplinary team and access to clinical trials would also be highly regarded. The presence of a strong support group network for breast cancer survivors would be another positive indicator.

The analysis should also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Patients with lower incomes or limited access to transportation may face additional barriers. The availability of financial assistance programs, transportation services, and language support services can significantly improve access to care for these vulnerable populations. The analysis should also assess the availability of resources for patients who are uninsured or underinsured.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the impact of health insurance coverage on access to care. Patients with limited insurance coverage may face significant out-of-pocket expenses, which can deter them from seeking necessary care. The analysis should assess the acceptance of various insurance plans by local healthcare providers.

The analysis should also consider the cultural sensitivity of healthcare providers. Healthcare providers should be trained to provide culturally competent care, which means they understand and respect the cultural beliefs and practices of their patients. This is especially important in areas with diverse populations.

In conclusion, a comprehensive breast cancer score analysis for ZIP code 18823 and Harford County requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis must consider the impact of socioeconomic factors, insurance coverage, and cultural sensitivity on access to care. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, this analysis can inform efforts to improve breast cancer care in the region.

To visualize this complex data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform allows for the creation of customized maps, overlaying data on physician locations, patient demographics, and resource availability, providing a powerful tool for healthcare analysis and planning.