15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.22 percent of the residents in 15773 has some form of health insurance. 48.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.70 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 15773 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 124 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15773. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 82 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 48 health care providers accessible to residents in 15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania.

The analysis presented below focuses on evaluating the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 15773, specifically Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania. This assessment considers the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial factor in early detection and management of lung cancer, along with other relevant healthcare aspects. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available to residents, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately aiding individuals in making informed decisions about their health.

The foundation of any successful lung cancer treatment strategy lies in robust primary care. In Saint Benedict, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical consideration. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health should be consulted to ascertain the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the designated ZIP code. This initial data point provides a baseline understanding of the community's access to general medical services.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Are the practices accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for an appointment? Do they offer extended hours or weekend availability? Are they equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, such as readily available imaging services? Investigating the patient reviews of local practices can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication effectiveness, and the overall quality of care. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc often offer patient reviews and ratings that can be leveraged to gauge the reputation of individual practices.

Another crucial aspect of modern healthcare is the integration of technology. Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in rural areas like Saint Benedict, where geographical limitations might pose challenges to accessing in-person appointments. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online access to medical records, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities. The availability of telemedicine can be a significant advantage in the early detection and ongoing management of lung cancer, allowing for more frequent check-ins and prompt responses to any concerns.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for providing holistic care. Assessing the proximity of mental health professionals to primary care practices and the availability of these services within the community is vital. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within the same practice as primary care, can streamline access to these vital resources.

Standout practices within the 15773 ZIP code should be identified. These practices may excel in specific areas, such as early detection programs, patient education initiatives, or specialized care for lung cancer patients. Identifying these practices involves a deeper dive into their services, including their screening protocols, their use of advanced diagnostic techniques, and their commitment to patient-centered care. Reviewing their participation in clinical trials and their collaborations with regional cancer centers can also indicate their commitment to providing high-quality, comprehensive care.

Specifically, consider the presence of any local hospitals or clinics with dedicated oncology departments or partnerships with larger cancer centers. These collaborations can provide access to specialized expertise, advanced treatments, and clinical trials, improving the overall prognosis for lung cancer patients. Investigate the availability of support services like smoking cessation programs, which are crucial for preventing lung cancer and improving the outcomes of those diagnosed.

The analysis should also assess the availability of community resources. This includes the presence of local chapters of cancer support organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or the Lung Cancer Research Foundation. These organizations often offer valuable resources, including support groups, educational materials, and financial assistance programs. The accessibility of these resources within the community can significantly impact the quality of life for lung cancer patients and their families.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the demographic characteristics of the population in Saint Benedict. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation can influence healthcare access and outcomes. Understanding these demographics can help identify potential disparities in care and inform strategies to address them.

In conclusion, a thorough 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis for Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15773) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis necessitates a deep dive into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, standout practices, and community support services. This comprehensive assessment will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape, ultimately helping residents make informed decisions about their health and access the best possible care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Saint Benedict, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and support services, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare resources available in your community, allowing you to make informed decisions about your health.