18850, Ulster, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18850, Ulster, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.65 percent of the residents in 18850 has some form of health insurance. 43.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.69 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 18850 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 418 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18850. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 408 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,900 health care providers accessible to residents in 18850, Ulster, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18850 & Primary Care Availability in Ulster

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 18850 and the broader context of primary care availability in Ulster County, aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score, while not a single, definitive number, is a composite understanding derived from several key factors impacting a patient's journey, from initial screening to ongoing support. The focus is on accessibility, quality of care, and the integration of supportive services.

ZIP code 18850, encompassing a specific geographic area, requires a localized examination of physician availability and practice characteristics. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the crucial entry point for breast cancer screening and early detection. The physician-to-patient ratio within this ZIP code, if data is available, is a fundamental metric. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) can indicate potential challenges in access, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time for patient education and personalized care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better accessibility. Publicly available data on physician counts, combined with census information on population density, will inform this initial assessment.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and characteristics of the practices themselves are critical. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the presence of:

* **Accredited facilities:** Are the practices affiliated with hospitals or clinics that have received accreditation from organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) for their mammography services? This accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous quality standards.
* **Screening protocols:** Do practices adhere to established guidelines for mammography screening frequency and age recommendations? Are they proactive in reminding patients of upcoming screenings?
* **Diagnostic capabilities:** Do the practices offer advanced imaging techniques like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and ultrasound, especially for patients with dense breast tissue?
* **Patient education:** Do the practices provide comprehensive patient education materials about breast cancer risk factors, self-exams, and the importance of early detection?

The analysis will identify any standout practices within 18850, those that demonstrate excellence in these areas. This could involve highlighting practices with:

* **Specialized staff:** Dedicated breast health navigators or nurse practitioners who guide patients through the screening, diagnosis, and treatment process.
* **Multidisciplinary approach:** Collaboration with radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care.
* **Commitment to research:** Participation in clinical trials or research studies related to breast cancer.

Ulster County, as a larger geographical area, necessitates an examination of primary care availability across the entire region. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the following:

* **Distribution of PCPs:** Is the distribution of PCPs equitable across the county, or are there underserved areas with limited access to primary care?
* **Insurance acceptance:** Do the practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, including those commonly used by residents of Ulster County?
* **Appointment availability:** How easy is it to schedule an appointment with a PCP for a routine checkup or breast cancer screening?
* **Waiting times:** What are the average wait times for appointments, both for new and established patients?

The presence of community health centers or federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is particularly relevant. These centers often serve as a safety net for underserved populations, providing affordable and accessible primary care services. Their role in breast cancer screening and early detection is crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." The ability to access healthcare services remotely, particularly for consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health support, can improve access for patients, especially those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The analysis will assess:

* **Telemedicine availability:** Do the practices offer telemedicine consultations for primary care appointments, follow-up visits, and specialist consultations?
* **Technology infrastructure:** Do the practices have the necessary technology and infrastructure to support telemedicine, including secure video conferencing platforms and patient portals?
* **Patient adoption:** How comfortable are patients with using telemedicine services? Are they provided with adequate support and training?

Mental health resources are an integral component of the "Breast Cancer Score." A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The analysis will examine:

* **Mental health services:** Are mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, available to patients within the practices or through referrals to external providers?
* **Support groups:** Are support groups available for breast cancer patients, providing a forum for sharing experiences and emotional support?
* **Integration of mental health:** Is mental health care integrated into the overall care plan, recognizing the importance of addressing the psychological impact of breast cancer?
* **Referral pathways:** Are there established referral pathways to mental health professionals, ensuring that patients can access the support they need?

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the availability of other supportive services, such as:

* **Nutrition counseling:** Do practices offer or refer patients to nutritionists who can provide guidance on diet and lifestyle changes to support their health?
* **Physical therapy:** Are physical therapy services available to help patients manage side effects of treatment, such as lymphedema?
* **Financial assistance:** Are patients informed about financial assistance programs that can help cover the costs of screening, diagnosis, and treatment?

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" is a multifaceted assessment, encompassing physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health and supportive services. A comprehensive analysis of these factors will provide a valuable understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP code 18850 and Ulster County, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

**To visualize and explore the spatial distribution of these healthcare resources and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the "Breast Cancer Score," we encourage you to utilize the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform allows for the visualization of healthcare data, enabling a more granular analysis of access and quality of care. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps today.**