15446, Indian Head, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15446, Indian Head, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15446 has some form of health insurance. 49.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.07 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 15446 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 19 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15446. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 707 health care providers accessible to residents in 15446, Indian Head, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Indian Head, PA (ZIP Code 15446)**

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians within the 15446 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability in Indian Head, Pennsylvania. The assessment considers factors crucial for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and comprehensive patient care. We examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a holistic approach to lung cancer management.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of accessible and quality primary care. In Indian Head, a rural community, primary care access is a critical concern. The Lung Cancer Score begins with an evaluation of the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time physicians can dedicate to preventive screenings, patient education, and personalized care plans. Conversely, a higher ratio allows for more focused attention on individual patient needs, including those at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer. Data from various sources, including the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, would be needed to accurately calculate this ratio for the specific area. This data point is crucial for understanding the baseline capacity of the healthcare system to manage lung cancer cases.

Standout practices within the 15446 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to proactive lung cancer screening and comprehensive patient care. These practices often implement evidence-based guidelines for screening high-risk individuals, including those with a history of smoking or exposure to other carcinogens. We would look for practices that actively promote low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the primary screening tool for early detection. Practices excelling in this area also integrate smoking cessation programs, providing patients with the resources and support they need to quit smoking. These programs are essential, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. Furthermore, standout practices prioritize patient education, empowering individuals to understand their risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists and healthcare facilities can be limited. The ability to conduct virtual consultations allows for remote access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. This is especially important for patients needing specialized care for lung cancer. Telemedicine can also facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of patients’ conditions, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices with robust telemedicine infrastructure and trained staff are awarded a higher score.

The availability of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but essential component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Therefore, the presence of mental health support services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This includes readily available referrals to mental health professionals and the integration of mental health screenings into routine care.

The specific details of the Lung Cancer Score for Indian Head, PA (15446), would depend on a comprehensive data analysis. This analysis would involve gathering information from various sources, including healthcare provider directories, insurance databases, and public health records. The data would be analyzed to determine the physician-to-patient ratio, identify practices with exemplary lung cancer screening programs, assess telemedicine adoption rates, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources. The weighting of each factor would be based on its relative importance in lung cancer prevention, early detection, and comprehensive care.

A high Lung Cancer Score would indicate a healthcare environment conducive to effective lung cancer management. This includes a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, proactive screening programs, robust telemedicine infrastructure, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as limited access to primary care, inadequate screening practices, and a lack of mental health support. The ultimate goal of the Lung Cancer Score is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape in Indian Head, enabling healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents to identify strengths and weaknesses and to develop strategies to improve lung cancer outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to health and well-being. It provides a framework for understanding the current state of lung cancer care and identifying areas for improvement. By focusing on key factors such as physician access, screening practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, the score empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions and to create a healthier community.

The findings of this analysis would be most effectively visualized using a geographic information system (GIS) mapping tool. Such a tool can illustrate the distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of resources within the 15446 ZIP code and surrounding areas. This visual representation can help identify areas with limited access to care and highlight the practices that are leading the way in lung cancer management. The ability to overlay various data layers, such as demographic information and environmental factors, can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.

Ready to explore the healthcare landscape of Indian Head, PA (15446), in greater detail? Utilize the power of spatial analysis and visualize the Lung Cancer Score data with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to explore physician locations, assess primary care availability, and identify areas with the greatest need for resources. Gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and make informed decisions.