18846, Sugar Run, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18846, Sugar Run, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.63 percent of the residents in 18846 has some form of health insurance. 39.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.83 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 18846 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 149 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18846. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 202 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 566 health care providers accessible to residents in 18846, Sugar Run, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sugar Run, PA (ZIP Code 18846)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of breast cancer care resources within ZIP code 18846, focusing specifically on the town of Sugar Run, Pennsylvania. The assessment considers factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician access, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system is access to qualified primary care physicians. In Sugar Run, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio in this rural area is likely lower than the national average. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the precise ratio requires analyzing publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, cross-referenced with local physician directories. A low ratio necessitates a careful evaluation of alternative care options, such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can often provide comparable care.

The quality of primary care practices directly impacts breast cancer detection and management. We must examine the practices in Sugar Run to determine if they offer the necessary services. This involves evaluating their screening practices, including the frequency and availability of mammograms. Do they have established protocols for referring patients with suspicious findings to specialists? Do they offer patient education materials about breast cancer risks and prevention? The presence of these elements suggests a proactive approach to breast health.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the specifics. This involves examining the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, and the practice's overall patient satisfaction scores. Are the physicians board-certified in internal medicine or family medicine? Do they participate in continuing medical education related to breast cancer screening and management? Do they have relationships with local imaging centers that offer timely and accurate mammograms and other diagnostic procedures? These factors contribute to a higher "Breast Cancer Score."

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in Sugar Run is crucial. Does the primary care physician offer telemedicine consultations for routine follow-ups or initial consultations? Can patients access telehealth services for mental health support? The availability of telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to receive timely care. This is particularly important for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects.

Mental health support is a critical, often overlooked, component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system is therefore essential. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, available to provide support to patients? Do the primary care practices offer referrals to these resources? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patient well-being and treatment adherence.

The availability of resources beyond primary care is also important. While Sugar Run may not have a dedicated oncology center, the proximity to larger hospitals or cancer centers in nearby cities is crucial. What are the referral pathways from primary care physicians to these specialized facilities? Are there established relationships and communication protocols to ensure seamless transitions of care? The ease of access to specialized care, including surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, is a significant factor in the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations can enhance the quality of care. These groups provide valuable emotional support, information, and resources for patients and their families. Are there local chapters of breast cancer organizations? Do the primary care practices inform patients about these resources? The presence of a strong support network can empower patients and improve their overall experience.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Sugar Run, PA, will be determined by a composite of these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare system with readily available primary care, high-quality practices, telemedicine adoption, and strong mental health support. A lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician access, improving screening practices, and expanding mental health resources.

The analysis also considers the socioeconomic factors that can impact breast cancer outcomes. The income levels and insurance coverage rates in Sugar Run can affect access to care. Are there programs available to assist low-income patients with the cost of screening and treatment? Does the local healthcare system actively work to address health disparities? These factors must be considered to provide a complete picture of the healthcare landscape.

The assessment of each practice will include an evaluation of their patient communication strategies. Are patients provided with clear and understandable information about their diagnosis and treatment options? Do they have access to a patient portal where they can view their medical records and communicate with their healthcare providers? Effective communication is essential for patient empowerment and shared decision-making.

The analysis will also consider the impact of healthcare policies and regulations on the availability and quality of breast cancer care. Are there any state or federal programs that support breast cancer screening and treatment? Are there any regulatory barriers that limit access to care? Understanding the policy landscape is essential for identifying opportunities to improve the healthcare system.

Finally, the "Breast Cancer Score" analysis will consider the overall patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the ease of scheduling, the friendliness of the staff, and the overall satisfaction with the care received. Patient feedback is a valuable source of information for identifying areas for improvement.

This comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis for Sugar Run, PA, provides a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifies areas where improvements are needed to ensure that all patients have access to high-quality breast cancer care.

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