15559, Schellsburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15559, Schellsburg, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.04 percent of the residents in 15559 has some form of health insurance. 33.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.62 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 15559 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 316 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15559. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 417 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 552 health care providers accessible to residents in 15559, Schellsburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Schellsburg, PA (ZIP Code 15559)

This analysis provides a nuanced assessment of the healthcare landscape in Schellsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15559), focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all of which impact the overall Lung Cancer Score. This score, while not a single numerical value, represents a qualitative understanding of the healthcare ecosystem’s ability to support patients facing this serious illness.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Schellsburg, a rural community, faces inherent challenges in this regard. Primary care availability is a critical determinant. A high concentration of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the area, coupled with easy access to appointments, directly translates to better screening rates and earlier diagnoses. Conversely, a scarcity of PCPs, long wait times for appointments, and limited office hours significantly hinder early detection efforts. This situation may be exacerbated by the age and health status of the local population, potentially increasing the demand for primary care services.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a vital indicator. A favorable ratio, meaning a higher number of physicians per capita, allows for more personalized care, increased screening opportunities, and greater patient follow-up. Conversely, a low ratio can lead to overburdened physicians, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially missed opportunities for early intervention. The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable travel distance is also essential. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer require specialized care, and convenient access to these specialists is critical for timely and effective treatment.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve healthcare access in rural areas like Schellsburg. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be physically located in the area. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations regarding test results, and mental health support. The extent of telemedicine adoption among local practices, including the types of services offered and the ease of use for patients, directly influences the Lung Cancer Score.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of the assessment. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients through the emotional challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The availability of these resources, either within primary care practices or through referrals to external providers, significantly impacts the overall quality of care and the patient's ability to cope with the illness.

Standout practices within the Schellsburg area, if any, would demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes proactive screening programs, utilizing evidence-based guidelines for early detection, providing patient education materials, and integrating mental health services into their care models. These practices would also likely have embraced telemedicine to enhance patient access and convenience. Their success in these areas contributes positively to the overall Lung Cancer Score for the community.

The specific practices in Schellsburg need individual scrutiny. Are there practices actively promoting smoking cessation programs? Do they offer low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, adhering to current screening recommendations? Are they actively involved in community outreach and education regarding lung cancer prevention and early detection? The answers to these questions are crucial to assessing the overall quality of care available.

The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations is another factor. These resources provide patients with emotional support, practical advice, and access to information about treatment options and clinical trials. The presence of these resources, and the ease with which patients can access them, strengthens the support network available to those affected by lung cancer.

Further investigation into the local hospital system is essential. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, with access to advanced treatment options such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, significantly improves the Lung Cancer Score. The hospital's commitment to research and clinical trials also contributes positively, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in Schellsburg should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact lung cancer outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited transportation options can all create barriers to care. Understanding these factors is essential for developing targeted interventions to address health disparities and improve the overall Lung Cancer Score.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Schellsburg, PA (15559) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices all contribute to the overall assessment. The community's ability to address these factors determines its capacity to support patients facing lung cancer. The more resources available and the better coordinated they are, the better the score.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Schellsburg and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, the availability of specialists, and the presence of healthcare facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.