15631, Everson, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15631, Everson, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.71 percent of the residents in 15631 has some form of health insurance. 39.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.47 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 15631 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 198 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15631. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 92 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,026 health care providers accessible to residents in 15631, Everson, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15631 and Everson, PA

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 15631, focusing on physician availability, particularly primary care, and the resources available in the nearby community of Everson, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors critical for early detection, treatment, and patient well-being. This analysis will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible primary care. Early detection through screening, facilitated by a strong primary care network, significantly improves patient outcomes. Within ZIP code 15631, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a vital indicator of accessibility. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, hindering timely screening and diagnosis. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 15631 is critical. Publicly available resources, such as those from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide this information.

The availability of primary care in Everson, a neighboring community, further influences the overall score. Residents of 15631 often seek care across geographic boundaries. Therefore, assessing the primary care resources in Everson, including the number of practices, the types of services offered, and the acceptance of new patients, is crucial. This includes evaluating the presence of family medicine, internal medicine, and general practice physicians, all of whom play a role in lung cancer screening and initial diagnosis.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within 15631 and the surrounding area is essential. This involves investigating practices known for their commitment to preventative care, including proactive lung cancer screening programs. These programs often involve risk assessments, patient education, and the utilization of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Examining patient reviews, practice accreditations (e.g., from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance), and the adoption of evidence-based guidelines can help identify practices that prioritize quality care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." Telemedicine offers numerous benefits, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. It allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, reducing travel burdens and improving access to care. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and specialists in 15631 is important. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine likely demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. The "Lung Cancer Score" must, therefore, consider the availability of mental health resources. This includes the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community or readily accessible through referral networks. Assessing the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other mental health resources specifically tailored to cancer patients and their families is vital. These resources are crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges associated with the disease.

Furthermore, the "Lung Cancer Score" should account for the availability of specialized care. While primary care physicians play a crucial role in screening and initial diagnosis, access to specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is essential for treatment. Examining the presence of these specialists within or near 15631, including their availability and the ease with which patients can access their services, is important. Proximity to hospitals with comprehensive cancer care centers, equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, also contributes to the overall score.

Moreover, the "Lung Cancer Score" should consider the availability of patient education resources. These resources can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and treatment. This includes access to educational materials about lung cancer, its risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options. Assessing the availability of patient navigators, who can guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, is also crucial.

The presence of community health initiatives, such as smoking cessation programs, also contributes to a higher score. These programs address a major risk factor for lung cancer and can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these programs within 15631 and the surrounding area is important.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 15631 and the surrounding area, including Everson, is a complex assessment. It necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, the quality of care provided by standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialized care and patient education. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

For a more detailed and visually informative analysis of the healthcare landscape in 15631 and Everson, including the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and the availability of resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the data discussed, enabling a deeper understanding of the accessibility and quality of lung cancer care in your community.