19012, Cheltenham, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 19012, Cheltenham, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.30 percent of the residents in 19012 has some form of health insurance. 29.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.66 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 19012 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,658 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19012. An estimate of 33 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,201 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33,054 health care providers accessible to residents in 19012, Cheltenham, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 19012 & Primary Care Availability in Cheltenham

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 19012, encompassing Cheltenham, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing a nuanced "Breast Cancer Score" for the area. The score is not a single number but a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These physicians serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through routine screenings and referrals to specialists. In Cheltenham, the primary care landscape is a key determinant of the overall "Breast Cancer Score." Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access to care. Assessing this ratio requires examining the number of PCPs practicing within 19012 and comparing it to the estimated population. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can be used to estimate these ratios.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are paramount. Standout practices in Cheltenham, those that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and patient education, contribute significantly to a higher "Breast Cancer Score." These practices often prioritize early screening, utilizing tools like mammography reminders and providing patient education on breast cancer risk factors and self-exams. They also establish strong referral networks with specialists, ensuring seamless transitions for patients requiring further evaluation or treatment. Identifying these standout practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing practice websites for information on services offered, and potentially contacting local healthcare organizations for recommendations.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score." Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, offers several advantages in breast cancer care. It can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and provide support and education. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine, particularly for these purposes, contribute positively to the "Breast Cancer Score." Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining practice websites for telemedicine options and contacting practices directly to inquire about their telehealth services.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. The "Breast Cancer Score" is significantly impacted by the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, who specialize in addressing the unique challenges faced by breast cancer patients. These resources can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues that may arise during treatment and recovery. Identifying these resources involves researching local mental health providers, cancer support organizations, and hospital-based programs.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 19012 is not solely determined by the presence of physicians and resources. The integration of these elements is equally important. Practices that actively collaborate, sharing patient information and coordinating care, contribute to a higher score. This collaborative approach ensures a more holistic and patient-centered experience. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists, further enhances the quality of care.

Furthermore, the accessibility of breast cancer care is a key factor. This includes the physical accessibility of medical facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the affordability of care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs contribute to a higher "Breast Cancer Score."

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 19012 and primary care availability in Cheltenham is a complex assessment. It hinges on a combination of factors: physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall integration and accessibility of care. A high score indicates a well-resourced and patient-centered system that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive treatment, and emotional support. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, and strengthening mental health support.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cheltenham and surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, the distribution of physicians, and the availability of resources, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare services and help you make informed decisions about your breast cancer care.