15693, Whitney, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15693, Whitney, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15693 has some form of health insurance. 29.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 15693 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 40 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15693. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 91 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,069 health care providers accessible to residents in 15693, Whitney, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Whitney, PA (ZIP Code 15693)

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within the Whitney, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15693) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), critical for early detection and management. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, assesses standout practices, examines telemedicine adoption, and evaluates the availability of mental health resources, all factors impacting the overall “Lung Cancer Score” for the region. This score, though not a formal metric, represents a qualitative assessment of the resources available to individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact, playing a crucial role in screening, diagnosis, and referral. In Whitney, the availability of PCPs is a key determinant of the “Lung Cancer Score.” The physician-to-patient ratio is a vital indicator. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to care, allowing for more personalized attention and potentially earlier detection through regular screenings. Researching the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 15693 is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide this critical information. A low ratio, indicating potential shortages, would negatively impact the score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of available practices significantly influences the score. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs. They might have established protocols for referring patients with suspicious findings to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, in a timely manner. Investigating the practices’ use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their integration with local hospitals is also important. Seamless data sharing between PCPs and specialists is critical for coordinated care, improving patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another factor. The ability to access virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or initial consultations, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for routine checkups or providing remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, would contribute positively to the “Lung Cancer Score.” Assessing the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access, and the patient satisfaction with these services is essential.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the overall care landscape. The “Lung Cancer Score” must reflect the accessibility of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and support groups. Assessing the proximity of mental health providers to primary care practices is vital. Are there established referral pathways between PCPs and mental health professionals? Are there resources available specifically for cancer patients and their families? The presence of these resources would significantly enhance the score.

The assessment of the "Lung Cancer Score" also involves evaluating the overall healthcare ecosystem. The proximity of hospitals equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scanners, is a critical factor. The availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers, including access to radiation therapy and chemotherapy, is also important. Examining the collaboration between primary care practices and these specialized centers is essential for seamless patient care.

Specific examples of practices within 15693 would need to be identified and evaluated to provide a truly accurate score. This involves researching individual practices, examining their websites, and potentially contacting them to inquire about their services. For instance, are there any practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers? Do they follow the latest guidelines for screening and diagnosis? Are they affiliated with larger healthcare networks that offer comprehensive cancer care?

Furthermore, the analysis needs to consider the demographics of the Whitney population. Are there specific populations within the ZIP code that are at higher risk for lung cancer, such as those with a history of smoking or exposure to environmental hazards? The “Lung Cancer Score” should reflect the efforts made to address the needs of these specific populations. This includes targeted screening programs, education initiatives, and culturally sensitive care.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated. As healthcare evolves, new technologies and treatment options emerge. The score should reflect these changes, incorporating the latest advancements in lung cancer care. This requires continuous monitoring of the healthcare landscape, including the availability of new treatments, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolving needs of the patient population.

In conclusion, assessing the “Lung Cancer Score” for Whitney, PA (ZIP code 15693) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall healthcare ecosystem. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the factors that contribute to the quality of lung cancer care in this specific area. Accessing and visualizing this data can be challenging. However, tools like CartoChrome maps can assist in visualizing geographic data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant healthcare resources. Consider using CartoChrome maps to gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Whitney and surrounding areas.