15435, Fairbank, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15435, Fairbank, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15435 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.00 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 15435 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15435. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 38 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,114 health care providers accessible to residents in 15435, Fairbank, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15435 & Primary Care Availability in Fairbank**

Fairbank, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 15435 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare accessibility, particularly concerning lung cancer care. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the area, evaluating factors crucial to early detection and treatment of lung cancer. The analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which significantly influence patient outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Fairbank, and the surrounding 15435 ZIP code, is a critical indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Assessing the specific ratio requires data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, cross-referenced with physician directories and insurance provider networks. A concerningly low ratio necessitates interventions such as incentivizing physician recruitment to the area, expanding existing practices, or establishing new healthcare facilities.

Within the 15435 ZIP code, identifying standout practices is crucial. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in areas relevant to lung cancer. This includes practices that emphasize preventative care, such as regular screenings and smoking cessation programs. Evaluating these practices involves examining their patient satisfaction scores, their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment, and their integration of comprehensive care. The presence of certified specialists in pulmonology and oncology within or readily accessible to these practices is another key factor. Practices with strong records of early detection and successful treatment outcomes should be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital component of healthcare access, especially in a rural area like Fairbank. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups. The degree of telemedicine integration within primary care practices in the 15435 ZIP code needs thorough investigation. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for education and patient support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine effectively can significantly improve access to care, especially for those who may have difficulty traveling to appointments.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a critical factor in lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the 15435 ZIP code is essential. This includes evaluating the ease of access to these services, whether they are integrated into primary care practices, and whether they offer specialized support for cancer patients and their families. Practices that provide or facilitate access to mental health support are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients.

The analysis must also consider the specific demographics of the population in the 15435 ZIP code. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of smoking habits can significantly impact the risk of lung cancer and the need for healthcare services. Understanding the demographic profile of the community allows for a more targeted assessment of healthcare needs and the development of tailored interventions. This includes assessing the availability of resources for smoking cessation, health education programs, and financial assistance for patients who may struggle with the costs of care.

Evaluating the infrastructure and resources available to support lung cancer screening and treatment is another crucial aspect. This includes assessing the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as low-dose CT scans, which are essential for early detection. The presence of accredited cancer centers or affiliations with larger healthcare systems can also indicate a higher level of care. Access to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology services within a reasonable distance is another crucial factor. Practices that have access to these resources and demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive cancer care should be recognized.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the role of community outreach and education in promoting lung cancer awareness and early detection. Practices that actively participate in community events, offer educational programs, and partner with local organizations to raise awareness about lung cancer are more likely to reach at-risk populations and improve patient outcomes. This includes assessing the availability of educational materials, the frequency of community screenings, and the practice’s involvement in local health initiatives.

The overall quality of care also hinges on the coordination of care among different healthcare providers. Assessing the level of collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare professionals is essential. This includes evaluating the use of electronic health records, the frequency of communication between providers, and the presence of care coordination programs. Practices that demonstrate strong coordination of care are better equipped to provide seamless and comprehensive care to their patients.

Finally, the analysis should consider the patient experience. This includes assessing patient satisfaction with their healthcare providers, the ease of scheduling appointments, the wait times in the waiting room, and the overall quality of communication. Practices that prioritize the patient experience and actively seek feedback from their patients are more likely to provide high-quality care and build strong patient-provider relationships.

In conclusion, evaluating lung cancer care in the 15435 ZIP code requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, demographic factors, infrastructure, community outreach, care coordination, and the patient experience. A thorough analysis of these factors will provide a clear picture of the current state of healthcare access and identify areas for improvement.
For a visual representation of healthcare access in Fairbank and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.