15334, Garards Fort, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15334, Garards Fort, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.89 percent of the residents in 15334 has some form of health insurance. 10.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 93.87 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 15334 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 162 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15334. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 808 health care providers accessible to residents in 15334, Garards Fort, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15334 and Primary Care Availability in Garards Fort**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality in the context of lung cancer necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis will focus on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in and around ZIP Code 15334 (Carmichaels, Pennsylvania) and the nearby community of Garards Fort, assessing factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources.

The primary care landscape in and around Carmichaels, PA, presents a mixed picture. While the area is predominantly rural, the presence of a few established medical practices offers a degree of healthcare access. However, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a significant challenge. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages, meaning each PCP is responsible for a larger patient population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses.

One of the more prominent medical practices in the vicinity of 15334 is Greene County Memorial Hospital. While not directly located within the ZIP code, it serves as a central healthcare hub for the region. The hospital's presence is a positive factor, offering access to specialists, diagnostic imaging (crucial for lung cancer screening), and potentially oncology services. However, the quality of care is not directly addressed.

The availability of primary care in Garards Fort, a smaller community near Carmichaels, is likely even more limited. The smaller population base often translates to fewer medical practices and a heavier reliance on PCPs in neighboring towns. Residents of Garards Fort may face considerable travel distances to access primary care, increasing the barriers to preventative care and early detection of lung cancer.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in evaluating healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and increasing the convenience of healthcare. The degree to which PCPs and specialists in the 15334 area have adopted telemedicine platforms is a crucial element in the "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. Practices that offer telemedicine options are likely to receive a higher score, as they demonstrate a commitment to patient accessibility.

Mental health resources are a vital component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is therefore a significant factor in the overall "Lung Cancer Score." Practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers are better equipped to support patients throughout their cancer journey.

To calculate the "Lung Cancer Score," several factors would be weighed. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a primary determinant, with a lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) resulting in a higher score. The presence of specialized services, such as pulmonology and oncology, would also positively influence the score. The availability of diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans, is critical for lung cancer detection and staging. Telemedicine adoption would be another significant factor, as would the integration of mental health resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" would also consider the presence of any standout practices. These might be practices that are known for their patient-centered care, their commitment to preventative screening, or their innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Practices with a strong track record of early lung cancer detection and successful treatment outcomes would also be highly regarded.

The challenges in the 15334 area and Garards Fort are substantial. The rural nature of the region presents inherent obstacles to healthcare access. The limited number of PCPs, the potential for long travel distances, and the possible lack of specialized services all contribute to a lower "Lung Cancer Score." However, the presence of Greene County Memorial Hospital and the potential for telemedicine adoption offer some hope for improvement.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a numerical rating; it is a reflection of the healthcare ecosystem's ability to support patients with lung cancer. It encompasses the availability of primary care, the access to specialized services, the integration of mental health resources, and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine. The score serves as a benchmark for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

The quality of primary care is the foundation of effective lung cancer management. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt diagnosis are critical. The PCP plays a vital role in educating patients about risk factors, recommending screenings, and coordinating care with specialists. The availability of high-quality primary care in the 15334 area and Garards Fort is, therefore, a crucial determinant of patient outcomes.

The lack of easy access to specialized care can also be a major hurdle. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer require the expertise of pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. Delays in accessing these specialists can negatively impact treatment outcomes. Therefore, the proximity of specialists and the efficiency of referral pathways are important considerations in the "Lung Cancer Score."

The implementation of telemedicine can help to bridge the gap between patients and specialists. Telemedicine allows patients in remote areas to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The adoption of telemedicine technologies by PCPs and specialists in the 15334 area is a critical factor in improving the "Lung Cancer Score."

Mental health support is a crucial element of lung cancer care. Patients with lung cancer often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as counseling and support groups, can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of their illness. The integration of mental health services into the healthcare system is a key component of the "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a dynamic measure that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. It is influenced by factors such as physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the integration of mental health services. Regular assessments of the "Lung Cancer Score" can help to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients in the 15334 area and Garards Fort have access to the best possible care.

For a more detailed, interactive map of healthcare resources in the 15334 area and Garards Fort, including physician locations, practice specialties, and telemedicine availability, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps.