18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.01 percent of the residents in 18832 has some form of health insurance. 43.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.33 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 18832 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 431 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18832. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 339 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,891 health care providers accessible to residents in 18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of breast cancer care in Monroeton, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 18832 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. It's crucial to assess not only the availability of medical professionals but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including access to primary care, mental health support, and the utilization of modern technologies like telemedicine. This comprehensive evaluation will provide a nuanced understanding of the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a foundational metric. Determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), oncologists, and radiologists per capita within the 18832 ZIP code is essential. A higher ratio of specialists, especially oncologists and radiologists, suggests potentially easier access to timely diagnoses and treatment. However, a balanced ratio of PCPs is also critical. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact, providing preventative care, screening referrals, and overall care coordination. An inadequate PCP ratio could lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau will need to be consulted to establish these ratios accurately.

Primary care availability in Monroeton is a key determinant of breast cancer care quality. The presence of readily accessible primary care practices is vital for several reasons. PCPs are responsible for conducting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, and referring patients to specialists if necessary. They also play a crucial role in educating patients about risk factors, promoting early detection, and coordinating care throughout the treatment process. Factors such as the number of primary care clinics, their operating hours, and the acceptance of various insurance plans directly impact accessibility. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of these practices within the 18832 ZIP code influences access, particularly for residents in more rural areas.

Identifying standout practices within the Monroeton area requires evaluating several criteria. Reputation within the community, patient reviews, and the adoption of best practices in breast cancer care are important. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship care, are highly desirable. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) for mammography services is a significant indicator of quality. Furthermore, practices that participate in clinical trials and offer access to cutting-edge treatments are highly valuable. Researching the specific services offered by local practices, including the availability of specialized breast imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), will be vital.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the analysis. The use of telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services for breast cancer patients within the 18832 ZIP code involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring for treatment side effects, and access to online patient portals for communication and information sharing. The extent to which telemedicine is integrated into the care pathway, from initial consultations to follow-up appointments, should be considered.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked, but are a crucial component of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health support services, such as therapy, counseling, and support groups, is therefore essential. This includes determining the number of mental health professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. The accessibility of these services, including insurance coverage and waiting times, should also be considered. Collaboration between oncologists, PCPs, and mental health professionals is a sign of a well-integrated care system.

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape in Monroeton also necessitates an understanding of the local hospital system. The presence of a hospital with a dedicated breast cancer center, offering comprehensive services, is a significant advantage. Evaluating the hospital's capabilities, including its surgical options, radiation therapy facilities, and access to clinical trials, is essential. The hospital's commitment to patient education and support services, such as support groups and survivorship programs, should also be assessed. Furthermore, the hospital's collaboration with local primary care practices and specialists is a key indicator of care coordination.

The availability of patient navigation services is another important factor. Patient navigators help guide patients through the complex healthcare system, providing support, education, and assistance with appointments, insurance, and other practical matters. Assessing the presence of patient navigation programs within local practices and hospitals is crucial. The effectiveness of these programs in improving patient outcomes and satisfaction should also be evaluated.

Finally, understanding the demographics of the 18832 ZIP code is essential. Factors such as age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence access to care and health outcomes. Analyzing the demographic profile of the community can help identify potential disparities in care and inform strategies to address them. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources can be used to gain insights into the population characteristics of the area.

In conclusion, a thorough assessment of breast cancer care in the 18832 ZIP code requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, hospital capabilities, patient navigation services, and demographic factors. This detailed analysis will reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, ultimately informing efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care for residents of Monroeton.

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