18980, Wycombe, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18980, Wycombe, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18980 has some form of health insurance. 36.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.52 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 18980 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18980. An estimate of 26 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 17 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,772 health care providers accessible to residents in 18980, Wycombe, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides a nuanced assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and related resources within the Wycombe, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18980) area. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and standout practices. This evaluation, while not a formal "score," aims to provide actionable insights for residents seeking quality breast cancer care.

Primary care forms the bedrock of preventative healthcare, and its availability significantly impacts early detection and management of breast cancer. In Wycombe, the proximity to larger healthcare systems like Doylestown Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center suggests a reasonable level of primary care access. However, simply having hospitals nearby doesn’t guarantee easy access to a primary care physician (PCP). Factors like insurance acceptance, appointment availability, and patient volume play crucial roles. The physician-to-patient ratio in the area needs to be investigated. If the ratio is high, it indicates a potential shortage of PCPs, leading to longer wait times and potentially delayed care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access. Local community health centers and smaller practices may offer more immediate appointments, but their capacity to handle a large patient load needs to be considered.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. An ideal ratio allows physicians to dedicate sufficient time to each patient, fostering a strong doctor-patient relationship, which is particularly important in the context of breast cancer care. A robust relationship facilitates open communication, enabling patients to feel comfortable discussing their concerns and anxieties. This, in turn, leads to better adherence to screening recommendations and treatment plans. In Wycombe, the analysis would require data on the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health would be essential for this calculation. Further research would be needed to determine the specific number of oncologists and breast surgeons in the area.

Standout practices in Wycombe and its surrounding areas are likely to be affiliated with the larger healthcare systems. These practices often benefit from advanced technology, specialized staff, and comprehensive resources. Identifying these standout practices involves examining their patient reviews, accreditations (such as those from the American College of Surgeons), and the availability of specialized services like genetic counseling and breast cancer support groups. Practices that offer comprehensive breast health services, including mammography, ultrasound, biopsy, and surgical options, would be considered highly desirable. Another factor is the availability of patient navigators, who assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for patients who find it difficult to travel to appointments. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists. The degree to which practices in Wycombe have embraced telemedicine would be a key factor in the assessment. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of patient portals for communication and information sharing. Practices that offer telemedicine options demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, which can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have significant emotional and psychological effects on patients. The availability of mental health support, such as therapy, counseling, and support groups, is crucial for patients' well-being. The analysis would assess the availability of these resources within the Wycombe area, including the presence of licensed therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists specializing in oncology. Collaboration between oncologists and mental health professionals is also important. Integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan ensures that patients receive holistic support.

The analysis also needs to consider the integration of these services. A well-coordinated system of care involves seamless communication between primary care physicians, specialists, mental health providers, and other support services. This coordination ensures that patients receive timely and appropriate care, minimizing delays and improving outcomes. The analysis would assess the extent to which practices in Wycombe have established referral networks and communication protocols to facilitate this integration.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Wycombe, PA, involves evaluating several key factors. Primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all contribute to a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape. This analysis, while not a formal score, aims to provide actionable insights for residents seeking the best possible care.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wycombe and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the data discussed, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.