15731, Coral, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15731, Coral, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15731 has some form of health insurance. 56.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.94 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 15731 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15731. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 79 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,570 health care providers accessible to residents in 15731, Coral, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15731 & Primary Care in Coral, PA

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care access and related resources within ZIP code 15731, with a specific focus on the availability of primary care services in the nearby community of Coral, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors that directly impact patient outcomes, including physician availability, practice quality, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on early detection and prompt intervention. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or at high risk due to factors like smoking history. Therefore, the accessibility and quality of primary care services in the Coral area are crucial for the overall Lung Cancer Score. This includes assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, which indicates the potential workload and availability of PCPs. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 15731 and the surrounding areas requires accessing publicly available datasets, such as those from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). These datasets provide information on the number of licensed physicians and the population demographics within specific geographic areas. Analysis of this data will reveal the density of primary care providers and specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, who are essential for diagnosing and treating lung cancer.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices in Coral is a significant factor. This involves considering factors like the accreditation status of the practices, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., X-ray, CT scans), and the adoption of evidence-based practices for lung cancer screening and management. Practices that adhere to national guidelines, offer comprehensive preventative care, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management will likely contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

Standout practices, if any, within the Coral area warrant specific recognition. Identifying these practices requires reviewing patient reviews, assessing their performance metrics (if available), and examining their commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and have a strong track record of positive patient outcomes would be considered standout performers. These practices often serve as models for others in the region.

The integration of telemedicine is another critical element of the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to specialists, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. It can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and provide access to support groups and educational resources. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and offer virtual care options will receive a higher score in this category.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are essential for patient well-being. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Coral area is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers will contribute significantly to a more holistic approach to patient care.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and patient education programs plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for lung cancer patients. These resources provide a platform for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and access valuable information about their disease and treatment options. Practices and healthcare systems that actively promote and support these resources will be viewed favorably.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 15731 and primary care in Coral is a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed above. It is not a single number but a nuanced assessment that highlights strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare ecosystem. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to address the needs of lung cancer patients, with readily available primary care, access to specialists, advanced technologies, and comprehensive support services. Conversely, a low score may indicate challenges in accessing care, limited resources, and potential disparities in outcomes.

The analysis of this data requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves gathering data from various sources, including public health agencies, healthcare providers, and patient advocacy groups. It also requires analyzing the data using statistical methods to identify trends, patterns, and correlations. The resulting Lung Cancer Score provides a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for improvement.

The assessment should also consider the presence of community outreach programs, such as those focused on smoking cessation and lung cancer screening. These programs can play a significant role in early detection and prevention, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The effectiveness of these programs, as measured by participation rates and impact on health outcomes, will also be factored into the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Finally, the Lung Cancer Score is not static; it must be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new technologies emerge, treatment options evolve, and healthcare policies change, the score should be adjusted to accurately reflect the current state of lung cancer care in the region. This ongoing assessment ensures that the score remains a relevant and valuable tool for improving patient outcomes.

To visualize and explore the data underlying this Lung Cancer Score analysis, and to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 15731 and the Coral area, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and user-friendly way to visualize healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician density, practice locations, and other relevant factors.