15341, Holbrook, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15341, Holbrook, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.97 percent of the residents in 15341 has some form of health insurance. 42.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.90 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 15341 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 235 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15341. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 124 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 383 health care providers accessible to residents in 15341, Holbrook, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Holbrook, PA (ZIP Code 15341)

This analysis examines the healthcare landscape of Holbrook, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15341), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, considering the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial elements in navigating a lung cancer journey. This assessment is designed to inform residents and potential patients about the healthcare resources available within their community.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in early detection and prompt treatment. This necessitates robust primary care, which serves as the initial point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or at high risk. Holbrook's primary care availability is a critical factor in the overall score. Determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 15341 ZIP code and the patient population they serve is essential. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative screenings, including those for lung cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating a greater availability of PCPs, would positively impact the score.

Specific practices within the Holbrook area should be evaluated. Identifying practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, such as those using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for high-risk individuals (current or former smokers), is crucial. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and follow-up care, as recommended by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is a key indicator of quality. Practices that integrate these guidelines into their standard of care will receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption presents another significant aspect of the analysis. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, can enhance access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and offer virtual appointments will be recognized for their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial in managing lung cancer, allowing for regular check-ins with specialists and providing support to patients throughout their treatment journey.

Furthermore, the availability of mental health resources is vital. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, within the Holbrook community or easily accessible through referrals, will significantly influence the score. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer or facilitate access to mental health services will be viewed favorably. The integration of mental health support into the overall care plan is increasingly recognized as essential for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Standout practices within Holbrook should be identified. This involves recognizing those that demonstrate exceptional commitment to lung cancer care. This might include practices that have implemented patient navigation programs, providing dedicated support to patients throughout their treatment journey. Patient navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care with specialists, and providing emotional support. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials related to lung cancer research should also be highlighted, as they contribute to advancing treatment options and improving patient outcomes.

The assessment should also consider the availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable distance of Holbrook. While the ZIP code itself may not have a dedicated oncology center, the proximity to facilities offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services is essential. Patients need access to comprehensive cancer care, including specialists, advanced treatment options, and supportive services. The ease of access to these resources will impact the overall score.

The analysis will also consider the availability of support groups and resources for lung cancer patients and their families. These groups provide a valuable platform for sharing experiences, offering emotional support, and accessing information about lung cancer. The presence of support groups within the Holbrook community or in nearby areas will be a positive factor.

The quality of communication between healthcare providers and patients is another crucial element. Practices that prioritize clear, concise, and empathetic communication will be viewed favorably. This includes ensuring patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects. The use of patient-friendly educational materials and the willingness to answer patient questions thoroughly are important indicators of quality.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Holbrook, PA, will be a composite measure, incorporating all these factors. It will reflect the community's ability to provide accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive lung cancer care. The score will be a valuable tool for residents, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare and understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The final score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing for easy interpretation. The score will provide a snapshot of the current state of lung cancer care in Holbrook, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize and further understand the healthcare landscape of Holbrook, PA (ZIP code 15341) and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide interactive visualizations of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare environment.