15323, Claysville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15323, Claysville, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.59 percent of the residents in 15323 has some form of health insurance. 32.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.72 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 15323 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 769 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15323. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 789 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,683 health care providers accessible to residents in 15323, Claysville, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Claysville, PA (ZIP Code 15323)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Claysville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15323) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, encompassing physician availability, primary care infrastructure, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, will provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. The ultimate goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to patients and identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of qualified medical professionals. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 15323 is crucial. This involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists practicing within the area and comparing that number to the estimated population of Claysville. A higher ratio generally indicates better access to care, facilitating early detection and timely intervention, both critical for lung cancer survival. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide this information.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and specialization of these physicians are paramount. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists and oncologists specializing in thoracic oncology is a significant advantage. These specialists possess advanced training and experience in diagnosing, staging, and treating lung cancer. Investigating the affiliations of local physicians with reputable hospitals and cancer centers is also vital. Affiliations often provide access to cutting-edge research, clinical trials, and multidisciplinary care teams, all of which can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Primary care availability in Claysville serves as the initial point of contact for many patients. The accessibility of PCPs is crucial for early screening and referral. A robust primary care network, characterized by short wait times, convenient appointment scheduling, and a focus on preventive care, is a strong indicator of a proactive healthcare environment. Analyzing the number of PCPs accepting new patients, their office hours, and the availability of same-day appointments can provide valuable insights into the ease of access to primary care services.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by physicians in Claysville can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who face geographical barriers or mobility limitations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration involves examining whether local physicians offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. The availability of telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialists located outside of the immediate area.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is immense. Mental health support is an integral component of comprehensive cancer care. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within Claysville is essential. This includes evaluating the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups specializing in oncology. Access to these resources can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 15323 requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves examining patient satisfaction scores, physician ratings, and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Analyzing the practice's commitment to patient education, its ability to provide timely access to diagnostic testing, and its coordination of care among different specialists can provide a more comprehensive picture of the care provided. Investigating the practice's participation in clinical trials and its use of advanced technologies, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques or targeted therapies, can also highlight its commitment to innovation.

The availability of advanced diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans, is crucial for early detection and staging of lung cancer. Assessing the availability of these technologies within Claysville and the turnaround time for test results is vital. Delays in diagnosis can negatively impact patient outcomes. The presence of a well-equipped radiology department with experienced radiologists specializing in thoracic imaging is a significant asset.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Claysville (ZIP code 15323) is not a single number but a composite assessment based on all these factors. It reflects the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the area. The score will be higher for areas with a high physician-to-patient ratio, a strong primary care network, robust telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, and standout practices.

Areas for improvement might include increasing the number of specialists, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support. Addressing these gaps can significantly improve patient outcomes and the overall quality of life for individuals affected by lung cancer in Claysville.

In conclusion, understanding the healthcare landscape in Claysville is complex, but essential. The availability of data, combined with a thorough analysis of the factors discussed above, is crucial to accurately assess the strengths and weaknesses of lung cancer care in this community.

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