18837, Rome, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18837, Rome, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.76 percent of the residents in 18837 has some form of health insurance. 35.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.70 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 18837 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 644 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18837. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 454 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,664 health care providers accessible to residents in 18837, Rome, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Rome, PA (ZIP Code 18837) and Primary Care Availability

This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care and primary care access in Rome, Pennsylvania, focusing on ZIP code 18837. We aim to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering various factors influencing patient outcomes, from physician accessibility to the availability of supportive resources. Our evaluation will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health support, all crucial components of a well-rounded healthcare system.

The core of a successful breast cancer journey rests on early detection and prompt, effective treatment. This begins with accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). In Rome, PA, the availability of PCPs directly impacts a patient's ability to receive routine screenings, such as mammograms, and to establish a relationship with a healthcare provider who can identify potential risk factors and coordinate care. A low physician-to-patient ratio would indicate a scarcity of PCPs, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and less proactive preventative care. Conversely, a higher ratio, coupled with a robust network of specialists, suggests a more favorable environment for managing breast cancer.

Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau. This data, combined with information from insurance providers and local healthcare systems, allows for a calculation of the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents within the 18837 ZIP code. This ratio provides a baseline for understanding access. A higher ratio, for example, would translate to a better score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. We must examine the practices within the area, looking for those that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer screening and prevention. This includes assessing whether these practices proactively offer mammogram referrals, provide patient education on risk factors, and have established protocols for timely follow-up appointments. Practices that integrate these elements into their standard of care would receive higher scores, reflecting their dedication to patient well-being.

Telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Rome. Its adoption within the 18837 ZIP code is a critical factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive counseling, and participate in support groups remotely. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, and providing access to online educational materials, will be rated favorably. This adaptability is essential for ensuring continuity of care, especially for patients facing mobility challenges or living far from major medical centers.

Breast cancer treatment and recovery can be emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a crucial component of our "Breast Cancer Score." This includes assessing the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or mental health. Practices that actively integrate mental health services into their care plans, offering referrals to mental health professionals or partnering with support organizations, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care and will be awarded higher scores. This integration is a strong indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Standout practices in Rome will be those that excel across multiple categories. This includes those with high physician-to-patient ratios, a strong emphasis on preventative care, robust telemedicine adoption, and easy access to mental health resources. Identifying these practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online reviews, and consulting with local healthcare professionals. These practices act as beacons of excellence, providing a model for other providers to emulate.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static metric; it is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare ecosystem. Regular updates are essential to capture changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health services. This continuous assessment ensures that the score remains relevant and useful for patients seeking the best possible care. This also means the score will need to be updated as new data becomes available.

Rome's geographical location and demographics will also influence the score. Rural communities often face unique challenges in healthcare access, including limited transportation options and a shortage of specialists. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions, such as mobile mammography units, partnerships with regional medical centers, and community outreach programs. These initiatives, if implemented, would significantly enhance the "Breast Cancer Score" for the 18837 ZIP code.

The overall score will be a composite of all these factors, weighted to reflect their relative importance in patient outcomes. The weighting might prioritize factors such as the availability of PCPs and the proactive implementation of preventative measures. The score will be presented on a scale, allowing for easy comparison and tracking of progress over time.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Rome, PA (ZIP code 18837) and its primary care availability is a complex assessment, reflecting the interplay of numerous factors. By analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the practices, and assessing the adoption of telemedicine and mental health resources, we gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. This analysis serves as a guide for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rome, PA, explore the power of spatial data analysis. **Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize physician locations, access to resources, and other relevant data points, providing a comprehensive and interactive view of the breast cancer care environment.**