15340, Hickory, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15340, Hickory, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.41 percent of the residents in 15340 has some form of health insurance. 53.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.07 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 15340 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 246 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15340. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 381 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,896 health care providers accessible to residents in 15340, Hickory, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15340 & Hickory Primary Care

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP Code 15340, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. It also examines primary care availability in Hickory, Pennsylvania, a key element in early detection and overall patient well-being. The LCS is a composite measure considering several key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to offer insights into the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of a strong LCS lies in accessible and responsive primary care. Hickory, as a locality, needs to demonstrate a robust primary care infrastructure to support the early detection of lung cancer. This involves assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the area, along with the patient population they serve. A high physician-to-patient ratio, where the number of patients per PCP is significantly elevated, can lead to reduced appointment availability, delayed screenings, and ultimately, a lower LCS. Conversely, a favorable ratio, coupled with readily accessible appointment scheduling and comprehensive preventative care services, will elevate the score.

Within ZIP Code 15340, the specific practices and their operational models are critical. The LCS considers factors like the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), which facilitate efficient communication and coordination of care. Practices utilizing EHRs often exhibit better adherence to screening guidelines, resulting in improved early detection rates. The availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray and CT scan facilities, further enhances the score. Proximity to specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a significant factor. Easy access to specialized care reduces the time from diagnosis to treatment, positively impacting patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly vital role in modern healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The LCS evaluates the extent to which physicians in 15340 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Practices offering virtual visits can improve access to care, especially for those living in areas with limited transportation options. Telemedicine also facilitates remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for timely interventions and improved management of side effects. A higher adoption rate of telemedicine, coupled with a user-friendly platform, will contribute to a higher LCS.

Beyond the clinical aspects of lung cancer care, the availability of mental health resources is crucial. A lung cancer diagnosis is often accompanied by significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The LCS considers the presence of on-site or readily accessible mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. The availability of resources that address the psychological impact of lung cancer significantly contributes to a higher LCS.

The analysis will look for standout practices within 15340. These practices will be identified based on a combination of factors. They may have a low physician-to-patient ratio, demonstrating accessibility. They may have invested in state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. They will likely exhibit a high degree of telemedicine adoption. They will have integrated mental health services into their care models. These standout practices will serve as benchmarks, showcasing best practices and setting the standard for quality lung cancer care within the ZIP Code.

The assessment will also consider the overall network of care. This includes the relationships between primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals. Strong communication and collaboration between healthcare providers are essential for seamless patient care. The LCS will evaluate the effectiveness of care coordination, including the use of referral systems, shared care plans, and regular communication between providers. A well-coordinated network of care contributes to improved patient outcomes and a higher LCS.

The analysis will delve into the specifics of the patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the ease of scheduling, and the overall patient satisfaction. Practices that prioritize patient communication, provide clear and concise information, and offer a supportive environment will receive a higher score. Patient feedback and reviews will be considered in the overall assessment.

The LCS will also consider the extent to which physicians in 15340 participate in lung cancer screening programs. These programs, often targeting individuals at high risk for lung cancer, are crucial for early detection. The LCS will evaluate the practices' adherence to screening guidelines, their efforts to educate patients about the importance of screening, and their success in identifying and referring patients for further evaluation.

The final LCS for physicians in 15340 and the assessment of primary care availability in Hickory will be presented in a comprehensive report. This report will provide a detailed overview of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and areas for improvement. It will also offer recommendations for enhancing the quality of lung cancer care in the region. The report will be a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and the availability of various services within ZIP Code 15340 and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to analyze the spatial relationships between physicians, patients, and resources. They can offer valuable insights into the accessibility of care and inform decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.