18854, Wysox, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18854, Wysox, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.02 percent of the residents in 18854 has some form of health insurance. 37.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.88 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 18854 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 340 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18854. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 290 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,896 health care providers accessible to residents in 18854, Wysox, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Wysox, PA (ZIP Code 18854)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the Wysox, PA (ZIP Code 18854) area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, healthcare infrastructure, and support services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the community's preparedness to address the needs of individuals facing this disease. The analysis considers factors influencing early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. PCPs are the initial point of contact, crucial for screening recommendations, risk assessment, and timely referrals to specialists. Within the Wysox area, primary care availability is a critical factor. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline understanding of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from healthcare provider directories, is essential to determine this ratio. This data will inform the score, giving weight to areas with higher PCP availability.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This includes the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adherence to screening guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate efficient communication and data sharing between providers is also a key indicator. EHRs streamline the process of tracking patient history, test results, and treatment plans, enhancing the overall quality of care. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the prevalence of these best practices within the primary care landscape.

The availability of specialized breast cancer care is another critical component. This includes access to radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and radiation therapists. The proximity of these specialists to the Wysox area is a significant factor. Longer travel distances can create barriers to care, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments or follow-up appointments. Evaluating the presence of accredited breast centers, which adhere to rigorous standards of care, is also essential. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating the expertise of various specialists to provide comprehensive care. The Breast Cancer Score will consider the accessibility and quality of these specialized services.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Wysox. Telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps, providing access to specialists and support services that might otherwise be unavailable. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor patients, and offer educational resources can significantly improve patient outcomes. The Breast Cancer Score will assess the extent to which local healthcare providers have embraced telemedicine technologies. This includes examining the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals.

Mental health support is an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and other resources is crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The Breast Cancer Score will evaluate the availability of these resources within the Wysox area. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, support groups, and programs specifically designed to address the emotional needs of breast cancer patients.

Standout practices within the Wysox area will be identified based on their commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. This includes practices that demonstrate a strong emphasis on early detection, patient education, and personalized treatment plans. These practices may have implemented innovative programs or initiatives to improve patient outcomes. Identifying and highlighting these standout practices will provide valuable insights into best practices and contribute to the overall Breast Cancer Score.

The analysis will also consider the presence of community resources that support breast cancer patients. This includes organizations that offer financial assistance, transportation services, and educational programs. The availability of these resources can help alleviate some of the burdens associated with breast cancer treatment and recovery. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the availability and accessibility of these community support services.

The final Breast Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted average of all the factors discussed. The weighting of each factor will be determined based on its relative importance in influencing patient outcomes. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, providing a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in the Wysox area. This will allow residents to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and make informed decisions about their care.

The data collection process will involve a combination of methods. Publicly available data sources, such as government websites and healthcare provider directories, will be used to gather information on physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, and the presence of community resources. Surveys and interviews with healthcare providers and community stakeholders will be conducted to gather more detailed information on the quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support services.

This analysis is not intended to provide medical advice. The Breast Cancer Score is a tool to assess the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. The specific recommendations for breast cancer screening and treatment should be made by a qualified healthcare professional.

By understanding the current state of breast cancer care in Wysox, the community can work together to improve access, quality, and patient outcomes. This assessment serves as a starting point for ongoing efforts to enhance the healthcare system and support those affected by breast cancer.

To visualize the data and understand the spatial distribution of healthcare resources in the Wysox area and beyond, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping tools can provide valuable insights into physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant factors.