18844, Springville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18844, Springville, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.51 percent of the residents in 18844 has some form of health insurance. 40.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.66 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 18844 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 344 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18844. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 443 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 193 health care providers accessible to residents in 18844, Springville, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18844, specifically in the context of Springville, PA. This area is rural, and healthcare access, including specialized services like breast cancer screening and treatment, can be challenging. We will evaluate the landscape based on factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive breast cancer care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. In a rural setting like Springville, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the timeliness of breast cancer detection. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact, conducting initial screenings, referring patients for mammograms, and coordinating care. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may face longer wait times for appointments, hindering early detection and intervention. The ideal ratio is generally considered to be around 1:1500, but in rural areas, this can be significantly higher. The analysis will need to assess the actual ratio in 18844, considering the number of PCPs actively practicing and the population served. A shortage of PCPs necessitates a closer examination of the availability of other healthcare providers, such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can also provide primary care services and assist in breast cancer screening.

The presence of standout practices in Springville is a significant factor. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to quality and innovation in breast cancer care. Evaluating these practices involves assessing several key areas. Firstly, the availability of state-of-the-art imaging technology, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is crucial for early and accurate detection. Secondly, the practice's adherence to established screening guidelines, including recommendations from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, is paramount. Thirdly, the practice's multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists, is essential for providing comprehensive care. Finally, patient satisfaction and outcomes data, if available, provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Identifying and highlighting these standout practices can help patients make informed decisions about their care and potentially improve overall outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas where geographic barriers can limit access to specialized care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups. The analysis will investigate the extent to which practices in 18844 offer telemedicine services for breast cancer care. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists, as well as the use of remote monitoring devices to track patient progress. Furthermore, the analysis will consider the accessibility of telemedicine services for patients with limited internet access or technological proficiency. The widespread adoption of telemedicine can bridge the gap in care, allowing patients in Springville to access specialized expertise without traveling long distances.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health support services in Springville, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. Assessing the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial. This includes examining whether practices offer on-site counseling, refer patients to mental health professionals, or provide access to online support resources. The availability of these resources can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of breast cancer, improve their quality of life, and enhance their overall treatment outcomes.

Primary care availability is the foundation of breast cancer care in Springville. The analysis will assess the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes evaluating the types of PCPs available, such as family physicians, internal medicine specialists, and geriatricians. The analysis will also consider the accessibility of these PCPs, including wait times for appointments, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of evening or weekend hours. Furthermore, the analysis will investigate the availability of preventative care services offered by PCPs, such as breast cancer screenings and referrals to specialists. The presence of a robust primary care network is essential for ensuring timely detection, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer.

The analysis will need to consider the impact of insurance coverage on access to care. The availability of insurance plans that cover breast cancer screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment is crucial. The analysis will need to investigate the types of insurance plans accepted by practices in 18844, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans. The analysis will also need to assess the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who are uninsured or underinsured. These programs can help patients afford the cost of care and ensure that they receive the treatment they need.

The analysis will also consider the impact of transportation on access to care. In rural areas, transportation can be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare services. The analysis will need to investigate the availability of transportation services for patients in Springville, such as public transportation, ride-sharing services, and volunteer driver programs. The analysis will also need to assess the distance patients must travel to access breast cancer screening and treatment services. The availability of transportation services can help patients overcome geographic barriers and ensure that they receive the care they need.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care in Springville, PA (ZIP code 18844) requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates a thorough examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A holistic understanding of these factors, combined with an awareness of the challenges faced by rural communities, is essential for improving the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Springville and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. Visit CartoChrome maps to discover the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and gain valuable insights into the accessibility of breast cancer care in your community.