15489, West Leisenring, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15489, West Leisenring, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.42 percent of the residents in 15489 has some form of health insurance. 60.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.57 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 15489 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 112 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15489. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 114 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 206 health care providers accessible to residents in 15489, West Leisenring, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Primary Care and Physician Resources in West Leisenring, PA (ZIP Code 15489)

Evaluating the availability and quality of primary care within a specific geographic area is crucial, especially when considering the complexities of a disease like lung cancer. Early detection and effective treatment hinge on accessible and knowledgeable primary care physicians (PCPs). This analysis focuses on West Leisenring, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15489), assessing its resources relevant to lung cancer care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in proactive primary care. This involves regular screenings, risk assessments, and patient education. The availability of PCPs within a community directly impacts these critical initial steps. In West Leisenring, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. While precise figures require access to proprietary databases, an assessment would involve examining the number of actively practicing PCPs within the ZIP code, factoring in their patient load and comparing this to the overall population. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could signal potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. This ratio, however, doesn't paint the entire picture. The quality of care, including experience in lung cancer screening and management, is equally vital.

Identifying standout practices within the 15489 ZIP code is essential. This involves evaluating factors like physician experience, patient reviews, and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, offer smoking cessation support, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education are particularly valuable. These practices often utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, manage referrals, and coordinate care with specialists. A thorough analysis would investigate the presence of these elements within each practice, highlighting those that excel in delivering comprehensive lung cancer-related care.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption within West Leisenring is a significant consideration. Telemedicine offers several advantages in lung cancer care, including remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists. The availability of telemedicine platforms allows patients to receive care without the need for extensive travel, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local practices, including the types of services offered and the technology utilized, is crucial. Practices with robust telemedicine infrastructure can significantly improve access to care and enhance patient outcomes.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health services within West Leisenring and the surrounding areas. This includes assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, offering referrals to mental health professionals or providing on-site counseling, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. The integration of mental health support can improve patient coping mechanisms, treatment adherence, and overall quality of life.

Beyond direct medical care, the availability of ancillary services also impacts lung cancer outcomes. This includes access to diagnostic imaging (CT scans, X-rays), oncology specialists, and support services like nutrition counseling and physical therapy. An analysis should investigate the proximity of these services to West Leisenring. The shorter the travel time to these essential resources, the more convenient and less stressful the patient journey becomes. Collaborations between primary care practices and specialists are also important. Seamless referral processes and effective communication between providers are essential for coordinated and efficient care.

Furthermore, the analysis needs to consider the socioeconomic factors that may influence lung cancer outcomes. This involves examining the prevalence of smoking, exposure to environmental hazards, and access to health insurance within the community. Communities with higher rates of smoking and environmental risks may experience a greater incidence of lung cancer. Addressing these factors requires a multi-faceted approach, including public health initiatives, smoking cessation programs, and access to affordable healthcare.

The assessment of primary care availability and resources in West Leisenring, Pennsylvania, is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and access to ancillary services. By considering these factors, we can gain a more complete understanding of the resources available to individuals at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer. This, in turn, can help identify areas for improvement and inform strategies to enhance the quality of care within the community.

This detailed analysis, while providing a framework, can only be fully realized with access to comprehensive, up-to-date data. To gain a truly insightful view of the healthcare landscape in West Leisenring, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15489), consider exploring the power of spatial data visualization.

**Call to Action:**

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