18824, Hop Bottom, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18824, Hop Bottom, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.93 percent of the residents in 18824 has some form of health insurance. 45.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.25 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 18824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 222 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18824. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 358 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 134 health care providers accessible to residents in 18824, Hop Bottom, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below assesses the quality of breast cancer care and primary care availability in Hop Bottom, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18824), focusing on physician resources, practice characteristics, and support services. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in this rural community.

Assessing the landscape begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In Hop Bottom, and surrounding areas, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, including oncologists and radiologists, is a critical factor. Rural areas often face challenges in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals, potentially leading to lower ratios compared to urban centers. This scarcity can translate into longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialized care, and increased travel distances for patients. Accurate data on the physician-to-patient ratio within the 18824 ZIP code is essential for a realistic assessment. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and the American Medical Association (AMA) can provide insights, though the granularity of this data at the ZIP code level may be limited.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of medical practices are crucial. Are there any standout practices in the area? These practices might be recognized for their patient-centered approach, advanced technology, or specialized services. Identifying these practices requires research. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc, along with patient reviews and local community feedback, can help identify practices with strong reputations for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Information on the equipment available, such as mammography machines, and the qualifications of the medical staff, including board certifications, is essential.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor. In rural areas, telemedicine can bridge the gap in access to care, especially for specialist consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telemedicine services, including virtual consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and mental health professionals, is a positive indicator. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to serve patients who may face transportation barriers or geographical limitations. The ease of access to these services, including the technology requirements and insurance coverage, is also important.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is vital. These professionals can provide counseling, support groups, and medication management, as needed. Assessing the availability of these resources within the 18824 ZIP code involves identifying local mental health providers, their specialties, and their willingness to work with breast cancer patients. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is another positive indicator.

The availability of support services is another key factor. Breast cancer patients often require a range of support services, including patient navigators, financial assistance programs, and support groups. Patient navigators help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing information, and offering emotional support. Financial assistance programs can help patients with the costs of treatment, medications, and other expenses. Support groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences, connect with others, and receive emotional support. The presence of these support services within the community is a positive indicator of the quality of breast cancer care.

Primary care availability is intertwined with breast cancer care. PCPs play a critical role in breast cancer screening and early detection. They often perform initial breast exams, order mammograms, and refer patients to specialists when necessary. The availability of PCPs within the 18824 ZIP code is essential for ensuring that women have access to timely screening and preventive care. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of PCPs, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of new patients. The integration of primary care practices with breast cancer specialists is also a positive factor.

The quality of breast cancer care is also influenced by the coordination of care. Effective coordination involves seamless communication between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers. This coordination ensures that patients receive the right care at the right time. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can facilitate care coordination by allowing healthcare providers to share patient information securely and efficiently. Practices that have adopted EHRs are better positioned to provide coordinated care.

Another factor is the quality of imaging services. Accurate and timely diagnosis of breast cancer depends on the quality of imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. The availability of high-quality imaging equipment and experienced radiologists is essential. Assessing the quality of imaging services involves evaluating the accreditation of imaging facilities, the qualifications of the radiologists, and the availability of advanced imaging techniques.

Finally, the patient experience is a critical factor. Patient satisfaction with the healthcare system is influenced by a variety of factors, including the quality of care, the communication with healthcare providers, and the convenience of accessing care. Assessing the patient experience involves gathering feedback from patients through surveys, online reviews, and other means. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction are more likely to provide high-quality care.

CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the 18824 ZIP code. They can be used to map the locations of healthcare providers, support services, and other resources. This visualization can help patients and healthcare providers to identify gaps in care and to make informed decisions about healthcare. To visualize the healthcare resources in Hop Bottom and surrounding areas, explore CartoChrome maps.