15534, Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15534, Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.72 percent of the residents in 15534 has some form of health insurance. 48.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.04 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 15534 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 245 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15534. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 859 health care providers accessible to residents in 15534, Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 15534 (Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania) and the surrounding area, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. This evaluation considers various factors impacting patient access and quality of care, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all critical elements in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment journey.

Buffalo Mills, a small community, likely presents unique challenges in healthcare access. The geographical isolation and potentially limited resources necessitate a careful examination of the local healthcare ecosystem. The focus here is to understand the realities of care delivery and identify potential areas for improvement.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In a rural setting like Buffalo Mills, the ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) to the population is likely a significant concern. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Determining the exact ratio requires data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would be a red flag, suggesting a need for increased recruitment efforts or innovative service delivery models.

Analyzing the availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is equally crucial. Lung cancer treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving these specialists alongside primary care physicians. If specialists are scarce within the immediate area, patients may be forced to travel significant distances for consultations, diagnostic procedures, and treatments. This travel burden can be a major obstacle, particularly for elderly or mobility-impaired patients.

Identifying standout primary care practices within or near 15534 is essential. These practices may be characterized by their commitment to patient-centered care, proactive screening programs, and efficient appointment scheduling. Factors to consider include the use of electronic health records (EHRs), which facilitate information sharing and care coordination; patient satisfaction scores, reflecting the quality of the patient experience; and the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and management. Practices demonstrating a strong focus on preventive care, including smoking cessation programs, would be particularly noteworthy.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. The level of telemedicine integration within primary care practices in and around Buffalo Mills should be assessed. This includes examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for specialist referrals and follow-up care. Practices actively embracing telemedicine are better positioned to serve a wider patient population and provide timely care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is crucial for patients' well-being. Assessing the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and the availability of mental health professionals in the area is vital. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Beyond direct medical care, access to social support services can significantly impact patient outcomes. This includes resources for financial assistance, transportation, and home healthcare. The availability of these services in Buffalo Mills and the surrounding area should be evaluated. Partnerships between primary care practices and community organizations can help ensure that patients have access to the support they need.

The analysis of lung cancer care in 15534 and its surrounding area requires a comprehensive approach. It's not simply about identifying the number of doctors; it's about understanding the entire healthcare ecosystem and how well it serves the needs of patients. This includes evaluating access to care, the quality of care, and the availability of supportive services. The goal is to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

The absence of robust data collection and analysis can hinder a complete assessment. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and state health departments can provide valuable insights into cancer incidence, mortality rates, and screening practices. Combining this data with information from local healthcare providers and community organizations can create a more complete picture of the lung cancer care landscape.

In conclusion, the evaluation of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 15534 and the surrounding area reveals a complex landscape. While the specific details require further investigation, the analysis highlights the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to social support services. Addressing these factors is critical to improving patient outcomes and ensuring that individuals affected by lung cancer receive the care they need.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare resources in Buffalo Mills and the surrounding areas, explore the power of spatial data analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, geographically-based view of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and demographic data, allowing for a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution. Explore CartoChrome maps today and visualize the healthcare landscape of Buffalo Mills.