15483, Stockdale, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15483, Stockdale, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.77 percent of the residents in 15483 has some form of health insurance. 36.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.00 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 15483 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 49 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15483. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 82 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 226 health care providers accessible to residents in 15483, Stockdale, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15483 & Primary Care in Stockdale

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 15483, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, particularly in the context of primary care availability in Stockdale, Pennsylvania. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients and identify areas of strength and weakness. A “Lung Cancer Score” is implicitly assessed through evaluation of key indicators, rather than a formal numerical rating.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on early detection and timely intervention. This, in turn, hinges on the availability and responsiveness of primary care physicians (PCPs). Stockdale, as a locality within 15483, serves as a crucial access point. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. Conversely, a favorable ratio facilitates proactive health management. Data on this ratio within 15483, and specifically in Stockdale, is paramount to understanding the initial accessibility challenges. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) would be essential to provide an accurate assessment.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the available primary care practices are significant. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including offering or facilitating lung cancer screenings for eligible patients (e.g., current or former smokers)? Practices that actively promote and implement screening protocols, adhering to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), are inherently more valuable in the fight against lung cancer. The presence of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray machines, further streamlines the diagnostic process.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, offers several advantages, especially in rural or underserved areas. It can improve access to specialists, facilitate follow-up appointments, and provide educational resources. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can be used for consultations with pulmonologists or oncologists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and support groups. The level of telemedicine integration within primary care practices in 15483, and the specific technologies employed, is a key indicator of healthcare innovation and patient convenience.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are integral to cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common. The availability of mental health services, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within or in close proximity to the primary care practices is crucial. Integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals are embedded within the primary care setting, are particularly beneficial, as they facilitate seamless coordination of care. The degree to which primary care practices in 15483 collaborate with mental health providers, and the ease with which patients can access these services, significantly impacts the overall quality of care.

The presence of standout practices within 15483 can elevate the overall Lung Cancer Score. These practices may demonstrate excellence in several areas, such as patient communication, care coordination, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines. Identifying these practices involves examining patient reviews, analyzing quality metrics (if available), and assessing their commitment to patient-centered care. For example, a practice that actively engages patients in shared decision-making, provides comprehensive educational materials, and offers robust support services would be considered a high-performing practice.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized care beyond primary care is essential. While primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to the healthcare system, patients with suspected or confirmed lung cancer require access to pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to Stockdale and 15483, and the ease with which patients can be referred to them, are critical factors. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable driving distance is a significant advantage. This center should offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, including access to advanced diagnostic tools, treatment options, and clinical trials.

The socio-economic factors of the population within 15483 also influence the Lung Cancer Score. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can create significant barriers to healthcare. These factors can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced adherence to treatment plans, and poorer health outcomes. Understanding the demographics of the area and the social determinants of health is essential for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the community. Initiatives that address these social determinants, such as providing transportation assistance or offering financial counseling, can significantly improve the overall quality of care.

In conclusion, the “Lung Cancer Score” for 15483, and specifically the primary care landscape in Stockdale, is a multifaceted assessment. It is dependent on the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of standout practices, and the accessibility of specialized care. Additionally, socio-economic factors play a crucial role in shaping the patient experience and influencing health outcomes. A thorough analysis, drawing on a range of data sources and considering the specific context of the community, is necessary to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare resources available in 15483, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and hospitals, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide a valuable spatial perspective on healthcare accessibility, allowing you to visualize the distribution of resources and identify potential gaps in care.