15732, Creekside, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15732, Creekside, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.16 percent of the residents in 15732 has some form of health insurance. 43.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.52 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 15732 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 287 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15732. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 329 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,468 health care providers accessible to residents in 15732, Creekside, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Creekside, PA (ZIP Code 15732)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare resources in Creekside, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15732) with a focus on lung cancer care necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability and quality of primary care physicians, a crucial entry point for early detection and management of lung cancer, while also assessing the broader healthcare ecosystem's support for patients facing this challenging disease. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care strategy rests on accessible and competent primary care. In Creekside, determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau. This ratio provides a baseline understanding of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially translate to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, including those for lung cancer. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, but it doesn't guarantee quality.

Assessing the quality of primary care involves considering factors like board certifications, years of experience, and patient satisfaction scores. Identifying standout practices in the area requires research. Are there any practices known for their proactive approach to preventative care, particularly lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals? Do these practices employ evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment? Reviewing online patient reviews, although subjective, can offer insights into patient experiences and perceptions of care. Furthermore, investigating the availability of advanced diagnostic tools within these practices, such as low-dose CT scanners, is critical.

Telemedicine adoption is another key area of evaluation. The ability to offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Does Creekside have primary care practices that utilize telemedicine platforms for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve patient adherence to treatment plans, crucial aspects of lung cancer care. Exploring the availability of telehealth services for specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also vital.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized medical services is crucial. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the presence of pulmonologists and oncologists within a reasonable distance is essential. Investigating the proximity to hospitals and cancer centers equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care is a priority. This includes assessing the availability of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and nurses, is a significant indicator of comprehensive care.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive care model. Does Creekside have access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or chronic illness? Are support groups available for patients and their families? Integrating mental health services into the care plan can significantly improve patient well-being and adherence to treatment. The ability to provide psychological support is an essential aspect of a comprehensive lung cancer care system.

Furthermore, understanding the socioeconomic factors influencing healthcare access is important. Creekside's demographics, including income levels, insurance coverage rates, and access to transportation, can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Are there programs in place to assist patients with financial burdens or transportation challenges? Addressing these social determinants of health is vital to ensuring equitable access to care for all residents.

Finally, assessing the level of community awareness and education regarding lung cancer is important. Are there public health initiatives promoting early detection and screening? Does the community have access to educational materials about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options? Community engagement and education play a vital role in empowering individuals to take proactive steps towards their health.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of lung cancer care in Creekside (ZIP code 15732) requires a comprehensive approach that considers the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of specialized medical services, the availability of mental health resources, and the impact of socioeconomic factors. While this analysis provides a general overview, a deeper investigation, involving data collection, and on-the-ground research is needed to gain a more accurate and detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Creekside and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.