15350, Muse, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15350, Muse, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.88 percent of the residents in 15350 has some form of health insurance. 42.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.61 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 15350 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 94 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15350. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,944 health care providers accessible to residents in 15350, Muse, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Muse, PA (ZIP Code 15350)**

Evaluating the accessibility and quality of healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer care, in a defined geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on Muse, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15350), examining primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection through screening and timely referrals are crucial. In Muse, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, which would reveal the number of PCPs practicing within the 15350 ZIP code and the total population. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, could signify potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. A higher ratio, conversely, would suggest greater accessibility. The analysis would need to account for the age distribution of the population, as older demographics often require more frequent medical attention.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the area involves evaluating factors like patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the practice's commitment to preventative care. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), would score favorably. This includes offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals (those aged 50-80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years). Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, smoking cessation programs, and coordinated care with pulmonologists and oncologists would also receive high marks.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption rate of telemedicine services by primary care practices in Muse is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce barriers to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Telemedicine can also facilitate follow-up appointments after lung cancer screenings or treatment, ensuring continuity of care. The analysis would assess the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), and patient satisfaction with these services.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery is substantial. The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is therefore critical. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with behavioral health organizations would be considered more comprehensive. This integration can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges associated with the disease. The analysis would assess the availability of mental health support, the training of PCPs in recognizing and addressing mental health concerns, and the presence of patient support groups or educational resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" would be a composite metric, reflecting the combined assessment of these factors. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Each factor would be weighted based on its relative importance in providing effective lung cancer care. For instance, a low physician-to-patient ratio could negatively impact the score, while a practice with exceptional screening protocols and mental health support would positively influence it. The score would be presented as a rating (e.g., on a scale of 1 to 10), providing a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape in Muse.

The analysis would also consider the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, in the broader region surrounding Muse. While this analysis focuses on the primary care environment within the ZIP code, access to specialists is crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists would be assessed. This regional perspective ensures a more holistic understanding of the healthcare resources available to residents of Muse.

In conclusion, evaluating the lung cancer care landscape in Muse, PA, requires a detailed examination of primary care availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration. By analyzing these factors, a "Lung Cancer Score" can be generated, providing valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This comprehensive assessment can inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the resources available and the areas that need improvement.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Muse and the surrounding areas, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant healthcare data, providing a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape.