15126, Imperial, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15126, Imperial, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.48 percent of the residents in 15126 has some form of health insurance. 24.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.41 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 15126 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,362 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 266 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15126. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 730 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,802 health care providers accessible to residents in 15126, Imperial, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Imperial, PA (ZIP Code 15126)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians within the 15126 ZIP code, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The primary aim is to evaluate the accessibility and quality of care for individuals in Imperial, PA, considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This score is a composite assessment, utilizing publicly available data and industry best practices to provide a comprehensive overview.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is early detection and prompt intervention. This begins with accessible and quality primary care. In Imperial, assessing primary care availability is crucial. The town's size and population density influence the number of primary care physicians needed to serve the community effectively. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative screenings, which are critical for catching lung cancer in its early stages. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, potentially leading to improved outcomes. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau will be utilized to determine this ratio.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative screenings, particularly lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals aged 50 to 80 years who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings will receive higher scores. Information on screening protocols will be gathered through practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially direct outreach to medical offices.

Standout practices within the 15126 ZIP code will be identified based on several criteria. This includes the availability of comprehensive services, such as on-site diagnostic imaging (X-rays, CT scans), access to pulmonologists and oncologists, and participation in clinical trials. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education and support groups will also be recognized. Patient reviews and testimonials will be examined to gauge patient satisfaction and experiences with the healthcare providers. Practices that actively use electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline care coordination and improve communication will be viewed favorably.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the modern healthcare landscape, especially in rural or underserved areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring can improve access to care and convenience for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies will receive higher scores. This will be determined by examining practice websites, online appointment scheduling systems, and information from healthcare directories. The availability of telemedicine services for lung cancer-related consultations and follow-up care will be particularly important.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is vital for supporting patients through their treatment journey. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health services within the practices and the surrounding community. This includes evaluating whether practices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers. The presence of support groups for cancer patients will also be considered.

The overall Lung Cancer Score will be calculated based on a weighted average of these factors. The weighting will reflect the relative importance of each factor in determining the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio and primary care availability will be given significant weight, as these factors directly impact access to care. The presence of comprehensive services and telemedicine adoption will also be weighted heavily. The final score will be presented on a scale, allowing for a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape in Imperial, PA.

The analysis will incorporate data from various sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Pennsylvania Department of Health, healthcare directories, and patient review websites. Data will be collected and analyzed to provide a comprehensive and objective assessment. The goal is to provide valuable information for residents of Imperial, PA, to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The analysis will also consider the presence of community resources that support lung cancer patients. This includes organizations that provide financial assistance, transportation services, and educational materials. The availability of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for patients and their families. The analysis will identify and assess the accessibility of these resources within the Imperial community.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a dynamic assessment, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new information becomes available. The analysis will be updated periodically to reflect these changes. The goal is to provide an ongoing assessment of the healthcare landscape in Imperial, PA, and to identify areas for improvement. The findings will be presented in a clear and concise format, making it easy for residents to understand the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in their community.

The analysis will also consider the presence of specialized lung cancer treatment centers or hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Imperial. Access to advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, is critical for patients with lung cancer. The analysis will assess the proximity of these facilities and the ease with which patients can access them. This includes evaluating transportation options and the availability of support services for patients traveling to and from treatment centers.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score analysis aims to empower residents of Imperial, PA, with the information they need to navigate the healthcare system and make informed decisions about their health. By evaluating the availability and quality of care, the analysis provides a valuable resource for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers alike.

To visualize the data and explore the healthcare landscape in Imperial, PA, and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. Their mapping tools allow you to see the distribution of healthcare providers, access to services, and other relevant factors in a visually engaging way. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.