15721, Burnside, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15721, Burnside, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.48 percent of the residents in 15721 has some form of health insurance. 41.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.86 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 15721 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 22 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15721. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 36 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 285 health care providers accessible to residents in 15721, Burnside, Pennsylvania.

This analysis focuses on evaluating primary care resources and their potential impact on lung cancer outcomes within ZIP code 15721 (Burnside, Pennsylvania), considering factors relevant to patient access and care quality. This involves assessing physician availability, the presence of supportive services like telemedicine and mental health resources, and highlighting standout practices. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and its implications for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The foundation of accessible healthcare is the availability of primary care physicians. In Burnside, ZIP code 15721, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, a low ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, can significantly impede access to timely screenings, diagnosis, and ongoing management of lung cancer. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, poorer patient outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more favorable environment for patients to receive prompt and consistent care.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is also crucial. Are practices concentrated in a single area, making access difficult for those residing in more remote parts of Burnside? Or are they strategically located to serve the entire community? The presence of practices accepting new patients is another vital factor. A practice that is consistently full, or not accepting new patients, creates a significant barrier to entry for individuals seeking care.

The quality of care provided by these primary care physicians is a paramount concern. This includes their experience in treating patients with chronic respiratory conditions, their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening (particularly for those at high risk, such as current or former smokers), and their ability to effectively coordinate care with specialists. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) is also an important factor, facilitating seamless information sharing between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other healthcare providers.

The adoption of telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to care. This is particularly relevant in Burnside, where geographical limitations can pose a significant challenge. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, streamlining the patient journey and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The extent to which primary care practices in 15721 have embraced telemedicine is a key indicator of their commitment to patient-centered care and their ability to overcome geographical barriers.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within primary care practices or through referrals is crucial for supporting patients’ emotional well-being. Integrated behavioral health services can improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological impact of the disease. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 15721 requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes examining patient reviews, assessing the practice's commitment to preventative care (such as lung cancer screening), and evaluating their use of technology to enhance patient care. Practices that demonstrate a strong focus on patient education, offer extended hours, and have a reputation for providing compassionate and effective care are likely to be highly regarded by the community. These practices often serve as models for others, setting a high standard for healthcare delivery.

The availability of ancillary services, such as on-site laboratories, radiology departments, and pharmacies, can also significantly impact patient convenience and access to care. Practices that offer a comprehensive suite of services can streamline the diagnostic and treatment process, reducing the burden on patients. This is particularly important for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment, who may require frequent appointments and tests.

Evaluating the healthcare landscape in Burnside, ZIP code 15721, requires a holistic approach. The number of physicians, the distribution of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care all play a role in determining patient outcomes. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. This analysis is a starting point for a more detailed investigation.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Burnside, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist availability, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to easily identify providers, assess access to care, and gain valuable insights into the local healthcare environment.