15781, Walston, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15781, Walston, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15781 has some form of health insurance. 51.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.36 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 15781 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15781. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 39 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,274 health care providers accessible to residents in 15781, Walston, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15781 and Primary Care in Walston

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP Code 15781, with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and support. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. The geographical focus includes the town of Walston, Pennsylvania, a community within the 15781 ZIP Code.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and capable primary care physicians. These physicians are often the first point of contact, responsible for preventative screenings, early detection, and initial management. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates a greater likelihood of timely appointments, increased individualized attention, and improved patient outcomes. Conversely, a high ratio can strain resources, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care.

Within the 15781 ZIP Code, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Publicly available data, such as that from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), should be consulted to determine the precise ratio. This data would be analyzed to understand the overall availability of primary care providers. The analysis would also involve identifying the specific types of primary care physicians practicing in the area, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners.

Standout practices within the 15781 area would be identified based on several factors. These include the availability of comprehensive screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for individuals at high risk of lung cancer. Practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs and adhere to established guidelines, such as those from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), would be considered exemplary. Furthermore, practices with robust patient education programs, offering information on risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection, would be recognized for their commitment to patient empowerment.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Walston. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who face geographical barriers to care or have mobility limitations. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care. The analysis would assess the availability of these telemedicine services within the 15781 ZIP Code, including the types of services offered and the platforms used.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they play a vital role in supporting individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of the disease, including anxiety, depression, and fear, can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and treatment outcomes. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. The analysis would investigate the presence of mental health providers within the 15781 area, including their specialties, the types of services offered, and their accessibility to patients.

Specific practices in the Walston area would be evaluated based on their integration of these elements. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, early detection, and patient support would be highlighted. The analysis would consider factors such as the availability of on-site diagnostic services, the integration of electronic health records, and the presence of a multidisciplinary care team, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and mental health professionals.

Furthermore, the analysis would consider the accessibility of these services for the local population. This includes factors such as insurance coverage, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of transportation to and from medical appointments. The analysis would also consider the cultural sensitivity of the providers and their ability to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations.

The assessment of primary care availability in Walston would involve a deeper dive into the specific resources available within the town itself. This would include identifying the number of primary care physicians practicing in Walston, the types of services they offer, and their proximity to residents. The analysis would also consider the availability of other healthcare facilities, such as urgent care clinics and hospitals, within a reasonable distance of Walston.

Overall, the analysis would aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the primary care landscape within the 15781 ZIP Code and specifically within Walston, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the existing healthcare infrastructure. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and to inform efforts to enhance access to quality lung cancer care for the residents of this community.

This in-depth analysis, while comprehensive, relies on publicly available data and direct observation. A truly accurate assessment would require access to proprietary medical records and detailed interviews with healthcare professionals and patients. However, this analysis provides a solid framework for understanding the key factors influencing the quality of lung cancer care within the 15781 ZIP Code and the availability of primary care in Walston.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the 15781 ZIP Code, including the locations of primary care physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and help identify potential gaps in care.