15043, Georgetown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15043, Georgetown, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.25 percent of the residents in 15043 has some form of health insurance. 32.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.44 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 15043 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 432 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15043. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 494 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,762 health care providers accessible to residents in 15043, Georgetown, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Georgetown, PA (ZIP Code 15043)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 15043 (Georgetown, PA), focusing on factors critical to patient outcomes, including access to care, quality of services, and support systems. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather a comprehensive overview based on publicly available data and reasonable assumptions.

The core of the LCS considers the impact of timely diagnosis and treatment on lung cancer survival rates. This includes evaluating the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs), who often serve as the initial point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms. Early detection through screenings, such as low-dose CT scans, is crucial, and PCPs play a vital role in recommending these tests. The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is also paramount.

Georgetown, PA, is a small community. Therefore, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical element. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services provides data on physician density, but this data is often aggregated at the county level. To estimate the ratio within 15043, we must consider the broader context of Beaver County. If Beaver County exhibits a lower-than-average physician-to-population ratio, access to care within Georgetown might be limited. This necessitates patients traveling to larger towns or cities, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Primary care availability in Georgetown is a significant factor. The LCS weighs the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, the types of practices (e.g., solo, group, hospital-affiliated), and their patient load. A higher number of PCPs, particularly those accepting new patients, positively impacts the score. Group practices can offer advantages like shared resources, coverage during physician absences, and potentially, a broader range of specialties. Hospital affiliations often indicate access to more advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and proactive lung cancer screening. Practices actively promoting smoking cessation programs, offering convenient appointment scheduling, and utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication and care coordination receive higher scores. Furthermore, practices with dedicated care navigators or patient advocates who help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system are highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Practices offering telehealth consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Telemedicine also allows patients to consult with specialists located further away. Practices actively using telehealth tools and platforms receive higher scores.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for lung cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The LCS considers the availability of mental health services within the practices themselves (e.g., in-house therapists, counselors) or through referrals to external providers. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer support services receive higher scores.

The LCS also assesses the availability of specialized lung cancer treatment options. While Georgetown might not have a dedicated cancer center, the proximity to hospitals or cancer centers offering advanced treatments, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, is crucial. The score considers the ease of access to these facilities and the availability of clinical trials.

Another factor is the practice’s commitment to patient education. Practices providing educational materials about lung cancer, its risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options receive higher scores. Patient education empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and actively participate in their care.

The score also considers the practice’s responsiveness to patient needs. Practices that are easily accessible, offer prompt appointment scheduling, and provide clear communication with patients receive higher marks. This includes the ability to communicate with patients through various channels, such as phone, email, and patient portals.

The analysis must also consider the overall health of the community. Factors such as smoking rates, environmental exposures, and socioeconomic indicators can significantly impact lung cancer incidence and outcomes. While this analysis focuses on physician practices, the broader community context is essential for understanding the challenges and opportunities in lung cancer care.

The LCS is not a static measure. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in physician availability, advancements in treatment, and evolving patient needs. The analysis is based on publicly available data and reasonable assumptions, and the actual scores of individual practices may vary.

This Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of lung cancer care in Georgetown, PA. It highlights the importance of access to primary care, specialized services, mental health support, and patient education. It also underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of care for all residents.

For a visual representation of physician locations, practice types, and access to care resources in Georgetown, PA, and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and data-rich view of healthcare landscapes, enabling a deeper understanding of the factors influencing lung cancer outcomes.