15423, Coal Center, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15423, Coal Center, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.15 percent of the residents in 15423 has some form of health insurance. 50.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.25 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 15423 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 663 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15423. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 353 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,200 health care providers accessible to residents in 15423, Coal Center, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Coal Center, PA (ZIP Code 15423)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for the Coal Center, PA (ZIP Code 15423) area, focusing on the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. The score considers factors like physician access, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive cancer care. This analysis aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care is early detection and timely intervention. This, in turn, is heavily reliant on accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). Coal Center, a small community, presents a potential challenge in terms of PCP availability. A low physician-to-patient ratio, where the number of patients per physician is high, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and a diminished ability for PCPs to provide proactive preventative care, including smoking cessation counseling and lung cancer screening recommendations. The analysis will assess the current physician-to-patient ratio in the area, comparing it to state and national averages to determine the relative accessibility of primary care.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices of PCPs in the area. Are they actively promoting lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals, as per the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines? Do they offer smoking cessation programs or refer patients to such programs? The analysis will attempt to identify standout practices within the 15423 ZIP code that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and proactive patient management. This might involve examining patient testimonials, practice websites, and publicly available data on quality metrics, if available. The presence of board-certified physicians and their experience in the community will also be considered.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialists is critical. While Coal Center might not have its own oncologist or pulmonologist, access to these specialists within a reasonable distance is essential. The analysis will explore the proximity of specialized cancer care centers, including hospitals with oncology departments and radiation therapy facilities. Travel time and transportation options for patients requiring specialized care will be evaluated, as these factors significantly impact access to treatment. The presence of support services, such as oncology nurses, social workers, and patient navigators, will also be considered, as they play a crucial role in guiding patients through the complex cancer care journey.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in modern healthcare, especially in rural areas. The ability to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of therapy remotely can significantly improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience. The analysis will assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among healthcare providers in the area. Are PCPs and specialists offering virtual appointments? Are they utilizing remote monitoring technologies for patients undergoing treatment? The availability of reliable internet access within the community will also be considered, as this is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine implementation.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services in the Coal Center area, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Are there partnerships between healthcare providers and mental health professionals? Are there resources specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients and their families? The presence of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education materials and resources. Access to reliable information about lung cancer, treatment options, and support services is crucial for empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care. This includes access to educational websites, patient brochures, and support groups. The presence of a strong patient advocacy network can also be a significant asset, providing patients with valuable support and resources.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a composite assessment, weighing the factors discussed above. It will not be a numerical score, but rather a qualitative evaluation based on the evidence gathered. The assessment will highlight strengths and weaknesses in the healthcare landscape, providing a comprehensive overview of the resources available to individuals in Coal Center facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The analysis will consider the impact of the community's demographics, socioeconomic factors, and environmental exposures on lung cancer risk and outcomes.

The analysis will consider the impact of the community's demographics, socioeconomic factors, and environmental exposures on lung cancer risk and outcomes. For instance, a higher prevalence of smoking or exposure to environmental pollutants may increase the risk of lung cancer. The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Individuals with limited financial resources or transportation options may face greater challenges in accessing timely diagnosis and treatment.

In conclusion, this Lung Cancer Score analysis offers a critical assessment of the healthcare resources available in Coal Center, PA (ZIP Code 15423), focusing on the specific needs of individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The assessment aims to identify areas of strength and weakness, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders. The analysis will hopefully serve as a starting point for improving access to care and supporting the well-being of individuals affected by lung cancer in this community.

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