15637, Herminie, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15637, Herminie, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.32 percent of the residents in 15637 has some form of health insurance. 51.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.94 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 15637 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 308 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15637. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 441 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,881 health care providers accessible to residents in 15637, Herminie, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Herminie, PA (ZIP Code 15637)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 15637, focusing on factors relevant to early detection and management of lung cancer. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine capabilities, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive care to a population potentially at risk. Herminie, PA, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery.

The overall LCS for this area is influenced by several interconnected elements. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced preventative screenings, and potentially, a delay in lung cancer diagnosis. Conversely, a higher ratio allows for more personalized care and timely interventions. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 15637 requires specific data retrieval; however, publicly available information from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. These estimates are then weighed against the population's demographics, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, to determine the impact on the LCS.

Standout practices are defined by their commitment to best practices in lung cancer screening and patient care. These practices typically adhere to established guidelines from organizations such as the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk individuals. They also actively engage in patient education regarding smoking cessation, a critical factor in reducing lung cancer risk. Identifying these practices requires a review of patient reviews, accreditation status, and a direct inquiry into their screening protocols and patient management strategies. Practices demonstrating proactive screening programs and a commitment to patient education would receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the LCS. Telemedicine allows for increased access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, provide remote monitoring, and deliver educational materials via telemedicine can improve patient adherence to screening recommendations and treatment plans. Practices that have fully integrated telemedicine into their operations would be favorably assessed, particularly those offering virtual follow-up appointments for patients who have undergone screening or treatment.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer, or even the anticipation of a potential diagnosis, can be emotionally devastating. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support, either within the PCP’s practice or through readily accessible referrals, is critical. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would receive a higher score. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups specializing in cancer care.

The specific characteristics of the practices within 15637 will determine the final LCS. Some practices may excel in screening protocols but lag in telemedicine adoption. Others may have excellent mental health resources but a limited physician-to-patient ratio. The overall score will reflect a weighted average of these factors, with each element contributing to the final assessment.

The analysis also considers the specific challenges faced by the community. Herminie, like many rural areas, may have limited access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. This necessitates a strong emphasis on the PCP's role in early detection and referral. The LCS considers the ease of access to these specialists and the efficiency of the referral process. Practices that have established strong relationships with specialists and can facilitate timely referrals would be viewed favorably.

Furthermore, the LCS takes into account the availability of patient education materials and resources. Providing patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options is crucial. Practices that offer educational brochures, online resources, and support groups would receive a higher score. This includes materials on smoking cessation, healthy lifestyle choices, and the importance of early detection.

The LCS is not a static measure; it is dynamic and evolves with changes in healthcare practices, technology, and community needs. Regular reassessment is necessary to ensure the score accurately reflects the quality of care available. This also necessitates ongoing monitoring of practice performance, patient outcomes, and the evolving landscape of lung cancer treatment.

The socioeconomic factors within 15637 also play a role. Factors such as income levels, education levels, and access to transportation can influence a patient's ability to access healthcare services. The LCS considers these factors and assesses how practices address these challenges. This may include offering flexible appointment times, providing transportation assistance, and offering financial counseling.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care availability in Herminie, PA (ZIP code 15637) is a complex assessment that considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The final score reflects a weighted average of these factors, with each element contributing to the overall assessment of care quality. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system is crucial for improving patient outcomes and ensuring early detection and effective management of lung cancer.

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