18842, South Gibson, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18842, South Gibson, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.15 percent of the residents in 18842 has some form of health insurance. 30.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.19 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 18842 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 47 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18842. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 26 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 164 health care providers accessible to residents in 18842, South Gibson, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below focuses on breast cancer care within ZIP Code 18842, encompassing South Gibson, Pennsylvania, and assesses primary care availability. It considers factors crucial for patient well-being, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview, enabling informed healthcare decisions.

South Gibson, Pennsylvania, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The analysis begins with a critical assessment of physician-to-patient ratios. Determining this ratio requires identifying the number of primary care physicians and specialists, particularly oncologists and surgeons specializing in breast cancer, practicing within the ZIP Code or serving its population. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, combined with information from healthcare directories, is essential. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of providers, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Conversely, a high ratio suggests better access to care. The ideal ratio varies based on population demographics and the prevalence of breast cancer risk factors within the community.

Standout practices within 18842 and the surrounding area require in-depth investigation. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. First, the experience and qualifications of the physicians are critical. Board certifications, years of experience, and specialization in breast cancer care are crucial indicators of expertise. Second, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, is vital for early detection. Third, the practice’s adherence to established clinical guidelines and its participation in quality improvement initiatives are essential. Patient reviews and testimonials, though subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall patient experience. Identifying practices that excel in these areas is paramount.

Telemedicine adoption is a transformative factor in healthcare accessibility, especially in rural areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration within practices in and around 18842 is crucial. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations? Telemedicine can reduce travel time and costs for patients, making healthcare more accessible. Furthermore, the availability of remote monitoring tools, such as wearable devices that track vital signs, can enhance patient care. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved outcomes. The analysis must consider the technical infrastructure available, including internet access and digital literacy among both patients and providers.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can significantly impact a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential. Does the practice have a dedicated social worker or psychologist on staff? Are there partnerships with local mental health providers? Are support groups specifically for breast cancer patients available in the community? The integration of mental health services into the care continuum is vital for addressing the emotional challenges associated with the disease.

Primary care availability in South Gibson directly impacts breast cancer care. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, performing screenings, and referring patients to specialists. The analysis must assess the number of primary care physicians practicing in the area, their availability, and their ability to provide comprehensive care. Are there enough primary care physicians to meet the needs of the population? Are appointments readily available? Does the primary care practice offer preventative services, such as mammograms and other cancer screenings? Addressing any deficiencies in primary care availability is crucial for ensuring early detection and timely treatment of breast cancer.

Further, the analysis must address the specific challenges faced by the population of South Gibson. This includes considering socioeconomic factors, such as income levels and access to insurance. Are there resources available to assist patients with the financial burden of cancer treatment? Are there programs to help patients navigate the healthcare system and access necessary services? The analysis must also consider the geographic challenges of the area, such as the distance to specialized care centers and the availability of transportation. Addressing these challenges is essential for ensuring equitable access to care.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in ZIP Code 18842 should culminate in a score reflecting the quality and accessibility of care. This score should be based on the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The score should be easily understandable and provide a clear indication of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area. This score can then be used to inform healthcare decisions and to identify areas for improvement.

The analysis should also include recommendations for improving breast cancer care in the area. These recommendations could include increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding access to telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support. They could also include promoting community awareness of breast cancer and encouraging early detection. The goal is to provide actionable insights that can lead to better outcomes for patients.

In conclusion, the analysis of breast cancer care in ZIP Code 18842 and primary care availability in South Gibson is a complex undertaking. It requires a thorough assessment of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. By considering these factors, it is possible to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and to identify areas for improvement. This information can then be used to inform healthcare decisions and to advocate for better care for patients.
Want to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access in South Gibson and beyond? Explore CartoChrome maps to see the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas needing improvement.