15784, Worthville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15784, Worthville, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 71.43 percent of the residents in 15784 has some form of health insurance. 38.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.62 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 15784 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15784. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 21 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 395 health care providers accessible to residents in 15784, Worthville, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15784 & Primary Care in Worthville**

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer, in a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 15784 and the primary care landscape of Worthville, aiming to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This score is not a single number but a composite of several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a realistic overview for patients and healthcare providers alike.

Worthville, while not a formally defined entity, is considered in this context as the area served by ZIP Code 15784. This allows for a focused evaluation of healthcare accessibility within the geographical boundaries. The assessment will consider the practical realities of accessing care, not just the theoretical availability of services.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Access**

A fundamental aspect of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In ZIP Code 15784, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and difficulty establishing a strong doctor-patient relationship. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with publicly available information from healthcare provider directories, is necessary to ascertain the exact ratio. A preliminary investigation suggests that the area might face challenges in this regard, with a potential shortage of PCPs. This scarcity could negatively impact the early detection and management of lung cancer.

The quality of primary care extends beyond the number of physicians. The availability of comprehensive primary care services, including preventive screenings, is essential. The ability to offer annual checkups, discuss family history, and order appropriate diagnostic tests like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals is paramount. A strong primary care foundation is vital for early detection, which significantly improves lung cancer survival rates.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Services**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. This includes the presence of board-certified pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. These specialists are critical for diagnosing, staging, and treating lung cancer. Practices that offer comprehensive services, such as on-site imaging (CT scans, PET scans), pulmonary function testing, and access to clinical trials, are highly valued.

Furthermore, the integration of a multidisciplinary approach is crucial. This means a collaborative effort between pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists, such as radiation oncologists. The best practices often have tumor boards, where specialists meet to discuss individual patient cases and develop personalized treatment plans. This collaborative approach ensures patients receive the most appropriate and effective care.

The quality of the practice environment also matters. Factors such as patient satisfaction scores, accessibility of the office, and the availability of support staff (nurses, medical assistants) all contribute to the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient communication, provide clear explanations of treatment options, and offer emotional support are likely to be considered standout performers.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in ZIP Code 15784 can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who have mobility issues or live far from specialist offices. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and follow-up appointments.

The benefits of telemedicine include reduced travel time and costs, increased convenience for patients, and improved access to specialists. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, the patient's comfort level with technology, and the ability of the practice to provide adequate technical support.

The use of telemedicine for lung cancer care can be particularly beneficial. It can allow specialists to review imaging results remotely, discuss treatment plans with patients, and provide emotional support. The extent of telemedicine adoption in ZIP Code 15784 needs to be assessed to determine its impact on patient care.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care.

Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model are highly valued. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in oncology. These professionals can provide emotional support, help patients cope with the stress of diagnosis and treatment, and address any mental health concerns.

The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also important. Support groups provide a forum for patients to connect with others who are going through similar experiences, share their feelings, and learn coping strategies. The presence of mental health resources is an essential factor in the overall quality of lung cancer care.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 15784 and the primary care landscape of Worthville is likely to be moderate. The potential challenges include a possible shortage of PCPs, the need to assess the availability of specialists, and the extent of telemedicine adoption. However, the presence of standout practices, the integration of mental health resources, and the commitment to patient-centered care can improve the score.

The score is not static. It can change over time as healthcare practices evolve, new services become available, and the healthcare landscape shifts. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that patients in ZIP Code 15784 have access to the best possible lung cancer care. The information presented is based on publicly available information and a preliminary assessment; a more comprehensive analysis would require detailed data collection and analysis.

**Conclusion: Visualize the Landscape with CartoChrome Maps**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 15784 and Worthville is crucial for patients, providers, and policymakers. To gain a comprehensive understanding of physician locations, the distribution of specialists, and the availability of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare environment, allowing for a deeper understanding of access, disparities, and opportunities for improvement. Visualize the data; make informed decisions.