15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.61 percent of the residents in 15357 has some form of health insurance. 46.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.76 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 15357 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 182 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15357. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 473 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Rices Landing, PA (ZIP Code 15357)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Rices Landing, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15357) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the availability and quality of physicians but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care accessibility, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial elements impacting patient outcomes. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within this specific geographic area, culminating in a call to action for enhanced data visualization.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care system is the availability of qualified physicians. Within ZIP code 15357, the number of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons directly impacts the accessibility of specialized care. Publicly available data sources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards, offer insights into physician counts. However, simply counting doctors is insufficient. We must also consider physician-to-patient ratios. A high ratio, indicating a large patient population served by a limited number of specialists, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer patient outcomes. Conversely, a low ratio suggests a more readily accessible healthcare system. The ideal physician-to-patient ratio for lung cancer specialists is context-dependent, influenced by factors such as the age and health profile of the local population, the prevalence of smoking, and the presence of any major healthcare facilities.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided by individual practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices requires examining several key metrics. Patient reviews and ratings, available on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, provide valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication, empathy, and overall satisfaction. Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) is a significant indicator of quality, as it signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care. Furthermore, examining the practice's use of evidence-based guidelines, participation in clinical trials, and access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies (e.g., minimally invasive surgery, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy) are crucial.

Primary care availability in Rices Landing plays a critical role in early detection and management of lung cancer. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, such as persistent cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath. The accessibility of PCPs, measured by factors such as appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and geographic proximity, directly impacts the likelihood of timely diagnosis and referral to specialists. A robust primary care system facilitates early screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, significantly improving survival rates. Conversely, limited primary care access can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor influencing the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care, particularly in rural areas like Rices Landing. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel, saving time, and improving access to care for those with mobility issues or transportation limitations. The availability of telemedicine services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption requires examining the availability of telehealth platforms, the willingness of physicians to utilize these platforms, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are therefore an essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, who specialize in oncology, is crucial. These professionals can provide counseling, support groups, and other interventions to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of their diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the availability of mental health resources requires examining the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services, including insurance coverage and wait times.

Specific practices within ZIP code 15357 that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer care are difficult to definitively identify without access to detailed, real-time data. However, based on publicly available information, it is possible to identify potential areas of strength. Any practice affiliated with a larger healthcare system, such as a hospital or medical center, may have access to more resources and specialized expertise. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or offer cutting-edge treatment options are also likely to provide a higher level of care. Further investigation, including patient reviews, practice websites, and direct contact with healthcare providers, would be necessary to confirm these initial assessments.

The healthcare landscape in Rices Landing, like many rural areas, may face challenges in terms of specialist availability and access to advanced technologies. Therefore, collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers is essential to improve lung cancer care. This includes efforts to recruit and retain qualified physicians, expand access to telemedicine services, and increase awareness of lung cancer screening programs. Addressing social determinants of health, such as poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to healthy food, is also crucial to improving patient outcomes.

In conclusion, a comprehensive analysis of lung cancer care in Rices Landing, PA (ZIP code 15357) requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While publicly available data provides a starting point, a deeper understanding requires access to detailed, real-time information. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rices Landing, and to visualize the distribution of resources, physician density, and patient outcomes, consider using CartoChrome maps. Explore the power of data visualization to uncover hidden patterns and make informed decisions about lung cancer care in your community.