15617, Arona, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15617, Arona, Pennsylvania is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.20 percent of the residents in 15617 has some form of health insurance. 33.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.55 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 15617 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 27 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15617. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 49 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,343 health care providers accessible to residents in 15617, Arona, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15617 and Arona Primary Care

This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective on the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within ZIP Code 15617 (Arona, Pennsylvania) and the broader context of primary care accessibility in the Arona area. The focus will be on factors influencing a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score," considering physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial elements in patient care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational metric. In ZIP Code 15617, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a critical factor. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. This, in turn, could negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, coupled with publicly available information, can help determine the physician-to-patient ratio. Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable travel distance, significantly impacts the score. The presence of these specialists, even if located outside the immediate ZIP code, contributes positively to the overall score by ensuring access to specialized care.

Standout practices within the 15617 area, and those serving Arona, are vital to the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, through proactive screening programs, are highly valued. This includes offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that actively participate in these screening programs, and demonstrate a high rate of patient compliance, would receive a higher rating. Furthermore, practices that integrate multidisciplinary teams, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and nurses, are considered more effective in managing lung cancer cases. The level of coordination between these specialists directly influences the Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in modern healthcare, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. The availability of telemedicine consultations, for both primary care and specialist appointments, can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate follow-up appointments. Practices that offer telemedicine services, particularly for patients undergoing treatment or follow-up care for lung cancer, would receive a higher score. The quality of telemedicine services, including the technology used, the training of staff, and the patient experience, is also a consideration.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, but essential, component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health support, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is crucial. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health issues and offer referrals to mental health professionals, or have integrated mental health services within their practice, would be favorably assessed. The accessibility and affordability of these resources are also important factors.

The Lung Cancer Score is not just about the presence of resources; it's also about their accessibility and quality. Consider the availability of patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, from scheduling appointments to understanding treatment options and accessing financial assistance. The presence of patient navigators, especially those specializing in oncology, would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score.

Furthermore, consider the patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient communication, provide clear and concise information, and offer a supportive and compassionate environment, are highly valued. Patient reviews, feedback, and satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients would receive a higher score.

The overall score is a composite of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the presence of screening programs, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the patient experience all contribute to the final score. The higher the score, the better the access to quality care for lung cancer patients in the area.

In the context of primary care availability in Arona, the analysis considers the accessibility of primary care physicians to the broader population. The proximity of primary care practices, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of evening and weekend appointments all influence accessibility. Areas with limited primary care access may require patients to travel further for care, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

The analysis also considers the demographics of the population served by these practices. The age, socioeconomic status, and health literacy of the patient population can influence the need for specific resources, such as culturally sensitive care and patient education materials. Practices that are sensitive to the needs of their patient population would receive a higher score.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic measure that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates and analysis are necessary to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the score. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare resources available in ZIP Code 15617 and the Arona area, and how they impact the care of lung cancer patients.

To visualize the data and gain deeper insights into the healthcare landscape of ZIP Code 15617 and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to explore physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access and quality. Visit CartoChrome today to see the data in action.