15724, Cherry Tree, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15724, Cherry Tree, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.33 percent of the residents in 15724 has some form of health insurance. 50.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.59 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 15724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 399 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15724. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 543 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,364 health care providers accessible to residents in 15724, Cherry Tree, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Cherry Tree, PA (ZIP Code 15724)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians and healthcare resources within ZIP code 15724, focusing on Cherry Tree, Pennsylvania. The score is not a definitive ranking but rather a composite evaluation considering factors crucial for early lung cancer detection, access to care, and overall patient well-being. It aims to highlight strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape to inform residents and potentially guide healthcare improvements.

The core of this analysis revolves around the premise that proactive primary care is vital for lung cancer outcomes. Early detection through screening, facilitated by a robust primary care infrastructure, significantly improves survival rates. Therefore, the analysis emphasizes access to primary care physicians, their adherence to screening guidelines, and the availability of supportive resources.

Physician-to-patient ratios form a critical foundation for this evaluation. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care providers, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially missed opportunities for early detection. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) are essential to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within 15724 and the surrounding areas. This data is then compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care.

Cherry Tree, as a rural community, often faces challenges in healthcare access. Geographic isolation, limited public transportation, and socioeconomic factors can all exacerbate these difficulties. The analysis considers these elements by examining the distribution of primary care practices within the town and the availability of transportation options to reach them. The presence of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is also assessed, as these facilities often provide crucial services to underserved populations.

Standout practices within the area are identified based on several criteria. These include the practice's commitment to preventative care, particularly lung cancer screening for eligible patients. This is measured by the practice's adherence to guidelines established by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Practices that actively promote screening, maintain comprehensive patient records, and offer patient education materials receive higher scores. Patient reviews and testimonials are also considered, providing insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. The analysis examines the availability of telemedicine services among primary care practices in 15724. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals receive higher scores. This also includes the availability of telehealth specialists for follow-up care.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to overall patient well-being and cancer outcomes. A cancer diagnosis, and the associated treatment, can significantly impact a patient's mental health. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health services within the community, including access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is particularly valued, as it facilitates a more holistic approach to patient care. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and mental health awareness programs within the community also contribute to the overall score.

The availability of specialized cancer care, such as oncology and pulmonology, is also considered. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to specialists is crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The analysis assesses the proximity of specialized cancer centers and the ease of access to these facilities for residents of 15724. This includes evaluating the availability of transportation services for patients needing to travel to these centers.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static measurement. It is intended to be a dynamic assessment, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape over time. Regular updates are necessary to account for new developments in medical practices, changes in physician availability, and the evolution of healthcare policies. The analysis also considers the impact of social determinants of health, such as income, education, and access to healthy food, on lung cancer outcomes.

The analysis also considers the availability of patient education resources. Practices that provide clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options receive higher scores. This includes the use of patient education materials, online resources, and community outreach programs. The ability of the practice to communicate effectively with patients and address their concerns is also considered.

The analysis is not without its limitations. Data availability, particularly for rural areas, can be a challenge. The reliance on publicly available data and patient reviews may not always provide a complete picture of the healthcare landscape. The subjective nature of some of the assessment criteria also introduces potential biases. However, the analysis strives to provide a comprehensive and objective evaluation based on the available information.

Overall, the Lung Cancer Score analysis for Cherry Tree, PA (15724) aims to provide a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. By highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure, the analysis can inform efforts to improve access to care, promote early detection of lung cancer, and ultimately improve patient outcomes. This data can be used to guide the allocation of resources, the development of healthcare programs, and the implementation of best practices in primary care.

To visualize and interact with this data, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a dynamic and comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 15724 and beyond.