15752, Kent, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15752, Kent, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15752 has some form of health insurance. 88.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 28.57 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 15752 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15752. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 288 health care providers accessible to residents in 15752, Kent, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Kent, PA (ZIP Code 15752)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within ZIP code 15752, encompassing the town of Kent, Pennsylvania. The primary focus will be on primary care physician (PCP) availability, a critical factor in early detection and patient navigation. We will assess the overall "Lung Cancer Score" by considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive patient care. This score is intended to provide a general overview and should not be considered a definitive ranking.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. Early detection is paramount, and PCPs play a vital role in identifying potential symptoms, ordering necessary screenings (like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and referring patients to specialists. Therefore, a high physician-to-patient ratio is a positive indicator. Unfortunately, rural areas often face challenges in this regard. Data suggests that ZIP code 15752, like many rural communities, might face a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urbanized areas. This means fewer doctors available to serve a potentially larger patient population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care.

Analyzing the specific practices within Kent reveals a landscape dominated by general family medicine and internal medicine clinics. Determining the exact number of PCPs and the patient population requires access to real-time, comprehensive data, which can be difficult to obtain publicly. However, anecdotally, the area may rely on a few key practices. These practices, depending on their size and resources, will significantly impact the overall "Lung Cancer Score." Larger practices with multiple physicians and support staff generally offer better access and a wider range of services.

Standout practices, in terms of their contribution to lung cancer care, would ideally demonstrate several key characteristics. First, they should have a strong emphasis on preventative care, including promoting smoking cessation programs and offering lung cancer screening to eligible patients. Second, they should have established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists in the region. Third, they should demonstrate a commitment to patient education and providing clear information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and treatment options.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. It allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients. The "Lung Cancer Score" will be positively impacted by practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, allowing patients to connect with their physicians more easily. This is particularly relevant for follow-up appointments after treatment or for managing chronic conditions related to lung cancer.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, significantly impacts the overall quality of care and the patient's ability to cope with the disease. The "Lung Cancer Score" will be higher for areas with readily accessible mental health resources, including partnerships between primary care practices and mental health professionals.

Furthermore, the availability of supportive care services, such as palliative care and pain management, also affects the score. These services help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and provide emotional support for patients and their families. The presence of these services within the community or readily accessible through referrals is an essential factor.

When assessing the overall "Lung Cancer Score," it's crucial to consider the interconnectedness of these factors. A high physician-to-patient ratio is beneficial, but it's less effective if those physicians don't prioritize preventative care or have limited access to specialists. Similarly, telemedicine adoption is valuable, but it's less impactful if patients lack access to reliable internet service or have limited digital literacy.

Data analysis for the "Lung Cancer Score" would require access to several data sources. Publicly available data from the US Census Bureau can provide information on population demographics. Information on physician availability can be obtained from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and professional medical directories. Hospital and clinic websites can offer insights into the services offered, including telemedicine capabilities and mental health partnerships. However, the accuracy of these sources can vary, and real-time data is difficult to acquire.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Kent, PA (ZIP code 15752) is likely influenced by the challenges inherent in rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio may be lower than in urban areas, potentially impacting access to care. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources are critical factors in improving the score. The presence of practices that prioritize preventative care, offer lung cancer screening, and have strong referral pathways will also have a positive effect. A comprehensive assessment would require a more detailed analysis of individual practices, their resources, and their commitment to patient care.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Kent, PA, and surrounding areas? Explore the distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and resource availability with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and identify areas for improvement.