15352, New Freeport, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15352, New Freeport, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.52 percent of the residents in 15352 has some form of health insurance. 42.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.94 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 15352 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 106 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15352. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 136 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 283 health care providers accessible to residents in 15352, New Freeport, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15352 & New Freeport Primary Care

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 15352 (covering the area around Waynesburg, PA) and evaluates the availability of primary care services in New Freeport, PA, with a focus on factors influencing lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive healthcare landscape.

The overall Lung Cancer Score is not a singular number but a qualitative assessment based on the interplay of these factors. A higher score suggests a more favorable environment for lung cancer patients, indicating better access to care, proactive screening, and supportive services. Conversely, a lower score points to potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care:**

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is the availability of medical professionals. In ZIP code 15352, the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically for primary care physicians (PCPs), is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio for this specific area is paramount. This data should be compared to state and national averages to establish a benchmark. A significantly lower ratio raises a red flag, suggesting potential access limitations.

For New Freeport, the availability of primary care physicians is even more crucial. Rural areas often face greater challenges in physician recruitment and retention. The analysis must assess the proximity of New Freeport residents to PCPs, considering travel time and transportation options. If residents must travel long distances for basic care, this negatively impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Care:**

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 15352 is essential. This involves evaluating factors such as:

* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Are practices accredited by reputable organizations? Do physicians hold board certifications in relevant specialties, such as pulmonology, oncology, and radiology?
* **Early Detection Programs:** Do practices actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screenings, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history)? Do they utilize low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the recommended screening method?
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Do practices collaborate with specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, to provide comprehensive care?
* **Patient Outcomes:** While difficult to obtain, data on patient outcomes (survival rates, complication rates) can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

The presence of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within or near ZIP code 15352 is a significant advantage. If patients must travel long distances for specialized care, this negatively impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices within ZIP code 15352 is a critical factor. Does the practice offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services? Telemedicine can improve access to care for patients who live far from medical facilities, have mobility issues, or face transportation challenges. It can also facilitate follow-up appointments and medication management. A higher level of telemedicine adoption contributes positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources is crucial for patient well-being. The analysis must assess the availability of:

* **Mental health professionals:** Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors available in the area?
* **Support groups:** Are there local support groups for lung cancer patients and their families?
* **Counseling services:** Do practices offer or refer patients to counseling services to address the emotional and psychological challenges of cancer?

The presence of robust mental health resources significantly improves the Lung Cancer Score, as it demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care.

**Specific Considerations for New Freeport:**

Given the rural nature of New Freeport, the analysis should focus on:

* **Transportation:** How accessible is primary care for New Freeport residents? Do they have reliable transportation options to reach medical facilities?
* **Community Resources:** Are there community health programs or outreach initiatives that provide lung cancer education and screening opportunities?
* **Collaboration:** Do primary care providers in New Freeport collaborate with specialists in nearby towns or cities to ensure patients receive comprehensive care?

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 15352 and the primary care availability in New Freeport requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. A higher score reflects a more favorable environment for lung cancer patients, while a lower score indicates potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care. The availability of specialized care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of robust mental health resources are all crucial factors. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 15352 and New Freeport, including physician locations, hospital locations, and access to care, explore the power of interactive mapping. Use **CartoChrome maps** to visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in the region.