18914, Chalfont, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18914, Chalfont, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.24 percent of the residents in 18914 has some form of health insurance. 23.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.14 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 18914 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,933 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18914. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,994 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,555 health care providers accessible to residents in 18914, Chalfont, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Chalfont, PA (ZIP Code 18914)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the Chalfont, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18914) area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility and the overall healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" – a subjective assessment based on available data, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive breast cancer support. This score is not a definitive ranking but an informed evaluation of the local healthcare environment.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in early detection and consistent primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and potentially reduced access to preventative care. Data from the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health are utilized to estimate this ratio within the Chalfont area. This data is then compared to national averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care. If the ratio is unfavorable, the score is negatively impacted. Conversely, a favorable ratio, indicating greater access to PCPs, boosts the score.

Primary care availability is further evaluated by considering the types of practices available. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer a broader range of services and potentially better coordination of care. The presence of practices affiliated with major hospitals or cancer centers is also considered a positive factor, as it can facilitate referrals to specialists and access to advanced treatments. The proximity of these practices to the residents of Chalfont, and the ease of transportation, are factored into the assessment.

Standout practices are identified through a combination of publicly available information, patient reviews, and physician directories. Practices known for prioritizing preventative care, including regular mammograms and breast exams, receive higher marks. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to patient education and support, such as offering educational materials on breast cancer risk factors and self-exams, are also considered favorably. The quality of communication between the practice and the patient, as reflected in online reviews, plays a significant role. A practice that fosters a supportive and informative environment contributes positively to the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and providing access to specialists for patients who may find it difficult to travel. Practices that offer telehealth services are given a higher rating, as this increases accessibility and convenience. The availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, oncologists, and other relevant specialists is considered a significant advantage. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform and the quality of the virtual experience are also factored into the assessment.

Mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Chalfont area is crucial. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients is a positive indicator. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans, or readily provide referrals to mental health professionals, are highly valued. The accessibility of these resources, including insurance coverage and wait times, also plays a role in the assessment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Chalfont, PA (ZIP code 18914) is a composite assessment based on the above factors. It is a dynamic score, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves. The score is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, reflecting the overall strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in providing breast cancer care. The score considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care practices, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The analysis also considers the potential impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. The affordability of healthcare, including insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses, is considered. The availability of financial assistance programs for breast cancer patients is also taken into account. The goal is to assess the overall accessibility of care for all residents of Chalfont, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

The assessment also considers the integration of technology in healthcare. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals is considered a positive factor, as it can improve communication between patients and providers and facilitate the sharing of medical information. Practices that utilize technology to improve patient outcomes and streamline care are given higher marks.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape in Chalfont, PA (ZIP code 18914) offers a variable range of resources for breast cancer care. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care practices, and the adoption of telemedicine are all important factors to consider. The availability of mental health resources is also crucial. The overall "Breast Cancer Score" reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This analysis is designed to provide an overview of the healthcare environment, and to help residents of Chalfont make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Chalfont, PA, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and support resources, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare resources available in the area.