15680, Salina, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15680, Salina, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.81 percent of the residents in 15680 has some form of health insurance. 44.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.37 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 15680 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 53 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15680. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 65 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,659 health care providers accessible to residents in 15680, Salina, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Resources in ZIP Code 15680 and Salina, PA**

Analyzing the availability of resources for lung cancer patients within ZIP code 15680, encompassing the Salina, Pennsylvania area, demands a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers the quality and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs), the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in the journey of a lung cancer patient. The ultimate goal is to gauge the support system available to those facing this challenging disease.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care plan rests upon a robust primary care network. A strong PCP can facilitate early detection through screening, provide timely referrals to specialists, and coordinate the patient's overall care. In Salina, evaluating the quality of primary care involves assessing the number of PCPs practicing within the area. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, may lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized attention. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can be used to estimate this ratio. Ideally, the region should have a ratio that meets or exceeds national averages, ensuring reasonable access to care.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the quality of care provided by those physicians must be considered. This involves evaluating the presence of board-certified physicians, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information sharing, and the implementation of evidence-based practices. The adoption of EHRs is particularly important, as it enables seamless communication between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers, which is crucial in the coordinated care of a lung cancer patient. Furthermore, a focus on preventive care, including regular screenings and health education, is critical.

Within the 15680 ZIP code, identifying standout practices is essential. This requires a review of patient reviews, accreditation status, and any specialized programs offered. Are there practices that specifically focus on cancer prevention or chronic disease management? Are there any partnerships with local hospitals or cancer centers? Practices with strong reputations, positive patient feedback, and a commitment to comprehensive care should be highlighted. These practices often serve as models for other providers in the area.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate among PCPs in Salina is a crucial factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who might not be readily available locally. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered and the ease of access, is essential. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve the convenience and accessibility of care for patients, especially those with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Mental health resources are therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a crucial factor. Are there mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients? Are there support groups or other resources available to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of the disease? The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients.

Another aspect to consider is the accessibility of these mental health resources. Are they located within the 15680 ZIP code, or are patients required to travel significant distances to access them? Are there any programs that offer mental health services remotely, such as through telemedicine? The availability of convenient and accessible mental health support is paramount.

In addition to these factors, the availability of other supportive services must be evaluated. This includes access to social workers, nutritionists, and physical therapists. Social workers can assist patients with navigating the healthcare system, accessing financial assistance, and connecting with community resources. Nutritionists can provide guidance on diet and nutrition, which is essential for maintaining strength and well-being during treatment. Physical therapists can help patients manage the physical side effects of treatment and improve their overall quality of life.

The presence of these additional supportive services contributes to a more holistic approach to care, which is especially important for lung cancer patients. These services can help patients manage their symptoms, cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of the disease, and maintain their overall well-being.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized lung cancer care within the region must be assessed. This involves evaluating the presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Are there any cancer centers or hospitals in the area that offer comprehensive lung cancer treatment? Are there any clinical trials available for lung cancer patients? Access to specialized care is critical for ensuring that patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments.

The overall assessment of the 15680 ZIP code and Salina, PA, regarding lung cancer care requires a careful balance of the above factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care network, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread adoption of telemedicine, robust mental health resources, and access to specialized lung cancer care. A lower score would indicate areas for improvement, such as a need for more PCPs, increased adoption of telemedicine, and improved access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the resources available to lung cancer patients in the region.

This analysis should be viewed as a starting point. To fully understand the landscape of healthcare resources in Salina, PA, a deeper dive into specific practices, patient outcomes, and the experiences of local residents is necessary. This can involve collecting data from various sources, including patient surveys, physician interviews, and hospital records.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the 15680 ZIP code and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, consider using the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and informative view of the healthcare resources available in the area, allowing you to explore the data in a more intuitive and engaging way.