15310, Aleppo, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15310, Aleppo, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.25 percent of the residents in 15310 has some form of health insurance. 43.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.17 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 15310 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 45 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15310. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 43 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 150 health care providers accessible to residents in 15310, Aleppo, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Aleppo, PA (ZIP Code 15310)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of lung cancer care resources within ZIP code 15310 (Aleppo, Pennsylvania), focusing on primary care access and physician capabilities. The ultimate goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, while also examining the broader healthcare landscape. This score isn't a numerical rating but rather a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Aleppo, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. Examining the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative screenings, including those for lung cancer. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, combined with local hospital and clinic information, would be necessary to accurately determine this ratio. A scarcity of primary care physicians, particularly those with experience in early cancer detection, would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond the sheer number of physicians, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the expertise of the physicians, their familiarity with lung cancer risk factors (smoking history, environmental exposures), and their proactive approach to screening. The Lung Cancer Score considers the prevalence of smoking within the local population, as this significantly elevates the risk. A community with a high smoking rate necessitates a more robust primary care system, capable of offering smoking cessation programs and aggressively promoting lung cancer screening guidelines.

Standout practices within the 15310 ZIP code would be those demonstrating a commitment to early detection. This involves actively recommending low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients (those meeting specific age and smoking history criteria as per the US Preventive Services Task Force guidelines). Practices that have implemented robust patient education programs about lung cancer risks and symptoms would also receive positive consideration. Furthermore, practices that collaborate with pulmonologists and oncologists, ensuring a seamless referral process for suspicious findings, would be highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Aleppo. The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the availability of telemedicine services for primary care consultations, follow-up appointments, and even specialist consultations. Telemedicine can significantly reduce the barriers to care, particularly for patients who have difficulty traveling or who live in remote locations. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to online patient portals would contribute positively to the score.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of mental health resources within the community. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer often experience anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. The presence of readily available mental health support is crucial for their overall well-being and can significantly improve their treatment outcomes. The score would also consider the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, allowing for early identification and referral of patients needing psychological support.

The infrastructure supporting lung cancer care extends beyond primary care. The presence of nearby hospitals with advanced diagnostic capabilities (CT scanners, bronchoscopy suites) and treatment options (surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy) is essential. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the proximity of these facilities and their ability to provide comprehensive lung cancer care. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists, is a critical factor. The efficiency of the referral pathways between primary care physicians and these specialists is also evaluated.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score examines the community's overall health literacy and awareness of lung cancer. Public health initiatives promoting early detection, smoking cessation, and healthy lifestyles contribute positively. The score considers the presence of educational programs, support groups, and community outreach efforts focused on lung cancer awareness. The more informed and engaged the community is, the better the prospects for early detection and improved outcomes.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Aleppo, PA (ZIP Code 15310) is a complex assessment that weighs multiple factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity to specialized cancer care facilities all play a critical role. The presence of a strong primary care foundation, coupled with readily accessible specialist care and robust mental health support, is essential for a high score. The score also reflects the community's overall commitment to early detection, prevention, and patient support.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Aleppo, PA, and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the Lung Cancer Score, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and understanding the distribution of resources within the community.