15613, Apollo, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15613, Apollo, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.44 percent of the residents in 15613 has some form of health insurance. 39.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.72 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 15613 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,390 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15613. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,037 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,809 health care providers accessible to residents in 15613, Apollo, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Apollo, PA (ZIP Code 15613)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within Apollo, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15613), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, a critical factor in early detection and management. We will assess various aspects, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This score, while not a single numerical value, represents a qualitative evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in addressing lung cancer concerns.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through routine screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, significantly improves survival rates. Therefore, the accessibility and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) are paramount. In Apollo, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Researching the precise ratio for 15613 requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) or the Pennsylvania Department of Health. This data would reveal the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the estimated population served. This ratio is a crucial component of our Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided by local practices is crucial. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors like patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening guidelines, offer comprehensive patient education, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement would score favorably. Investigating the specific practices in Apollo necessitates utilizing online resources like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc. These platforms provide patient reviews, physician profiles, and information on the services each practice provides. Assessing whether these practices actively participate in the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for lung cancer screening is essential.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Apollo. Its adoption can improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing far from medical facilities. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially reach a wider patient base and offer more convenient follow-up appointments and consultations. Researching which practices in 15613 offer telehealth services is vital. This includes assessing the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of use of the platform, and the availability of technical support for patients.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Mental health support is an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. Assessing the availability of mental health resources in Apollo is therefore critical. This includes identifying local therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or related fields. Examining whether local practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals is also essential. Access to mental health support can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of diagnosis and treatment. The presence of these resources will positively influence the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score for Apollo, PA (15613) is a composite assessment. It weighs the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices (including adherence to screening guidelines), the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score indicates a robust healthcare ecosystem that supports early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient care. A lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, promoting screening guidelines, expanding telemedicine services, and improving access to mental health support.

To further refine this analysis, it is necessary to consider the demographics of the population served by these practices. Factors such as age, smoking history, and socioeconomic status can influence the prevalence of lung cancer and the specific needs of patients. Understanding these demographics can help tailor healthcare services to the specific needs of the community. This detailed analysis can provide valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

Analyzing the data and synthesizing the information into a meaningful Lung Cancer Score requires a structured approach. The evaluation should involve a systematic review of available data, a comparative analysis of different practices, and an assessment of the overall healthcare infrastructure in Apollo. This process should also include an assessment of the accessibility of specialty care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable distance of the ZIP code.

The final Lung Cancer Score is not just a number, but a reflection of the community's ability to address the challenges of lung cancer. It's a measure of the commitment to early detection, effective treatment, and compassionate care. The score provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement. It also helps to empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and seek the best possible care.

The evaluation of the healthcare landscape in Apollo, PA (15613) is an ongoing process. Healthcare systems are constantly evolving, and new advancements in lung cancer care are continually emerging. Regular updates to the Lung Cancer Score are essential to ensure that the assessment remains accurate and relevant. This requires continuous monitoring of the healthcare environment, including changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new treatments.

Ultimately, the goal of this Lung Cancer Score analysis is to improve the health and well-being of the community in Apollo. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, we can work together to create a healthcare system that effectively addresses the challenges of lung cancer and provides the best possible care for all patients. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, patients, community organizations, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Apollo, PA (15613), including the locations of practices, physician density, and proximity to specialized care, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Use CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.