15733, De Lancey, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15733, De Lancey, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.31 percent of the residents in 15733 has some form of health insurance. 62.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.00 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 15733 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 43 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15733. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 46 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 263 health care providers accessible to residents in 15733, De Lancey, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on the availability of resources for lung cancer care within the ZIP code 15733, encompassing the De Lancey, Pennsylvania area. It considers factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician access, the integration of technology, and the availability of supportive services like mental health care. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis or undergoing treatment.

The core of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of skilled medical professionals. In the De Lancey area, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, meaning fewer patients per doctor, generally translates to better access to appointments, more personalized care, and potentially earlier detection of lung cancer symptoms. Data regarding the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 15733 requires a dedicated investigation using resources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This research would reveal the current state of access to primary care, a vital entry point for individuals experiencing concerning respiratory symptoms.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. This includes the presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment like low-dose CT scanners (essential for early lung cancer detection), and the implementation of evidence-based screening protocols. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient education also warrant recognition. Reviews from patients and peer assessments can offer insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.

The integration of telemedicine is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, and its adoption within 15733 is a key consideration. Telemedicine offers several advantages for lung cancer patients, including remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The ability to monitor patients' symptoms remotely, provide medication management support, and offer virtual support groups can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of travel, especially for those undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services in the De Lancey area requires examining the offerings of local hospitals, clinics, and individual practices.

The mental and emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is immense. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. These resources can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges associated with the disease. The presence of social workers who can assist with navigating the complexities of insurance, financial assistance, and support services is also highly valuable. Investigating the availability of these resources in the De Lancey area involves contacting local hospitals, cancer centers, and community organizations.

The geographical distribution of healthcare resources is another factor to consider. The distance patients must travel to access primary care, diagnostic services, and specialized cancer treatment centers can significantly impact their care. This is especially relevant in rural areas like De Lancey, where transportation options may be limited. Analyzing the proximity of these resources to the population within 15733 provides a clearer picture of accessibility. This analysis may involve mapping the locations of healthcare providers and assessing the availability of public transportation or other transportation assistance programs.

The presence of specialized cancer care centers is a critical factor in assessing the overall quality of lung cancer care. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together oncologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive treatment. They also often have access to clinical trials and cutting-edge therapies. Identifying the nearest cancer centers and evaluating their capabilities, including their accreditation status and patient outcomes, is essential for understanding the level of specialized care available to residents of De Lancey.

The availability of support services beyond medical care is also important. This includes resources such as smoking cessation programs, nutritional counseling, and physical therapy. Smoking cessation programs are particularly critical, given the strong link between smoking and lung cancer. Nutritional counseling can help patients maintain their strength and manage side effects of treatment. Physical therapy can help patients regain their mobility and improve their overall quality of life. Assessing the availability of these support services requires researching local health organizations, hospitals, and community centers.

The implementation of patient navigation programs can also improve care. These programs provide patients with a dedicated point of contact who can help them navigate the healthcare system, schedule appointments, understand their treatment plan, and access support services. Patient navigators can be particularly helpful for patients who are newly diagnosed or who are facing complex treatment regimens. Assessing the presence of patient navigation programs within the healthcare system of 15733 is another important aspect of the analysis.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care resources in the De Lancey area requires a multifaceted approach. It involves gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the quality of primary care practices, assessing the adoption of telemedicine, examining the availability of mental health resources, and considering the geographical distribution of healthcare facilities. By combining these factors, a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape can be developed, providing valuable insights for individuals seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

For a dynamic and visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the De Lancey area, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a clear and concise overview of the available resources, helping you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.