15823, Brockport, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15823, Brockport, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.15 percent of the residents in 15823 has some form of health insurance. 38.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.92 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 15823 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 296 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15823. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 244 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,743 health care providers accessible to residents in 15823, Brockport, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Brockport, PA (ZIP Code 15823)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services in Brockport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15823), focusing on factors crucial for early lung cancer detection and management. We evaluate these elements to create a "Lung Cancer Score," reflecting the community's preparedness to address this significant health concern. The assessment considers physician availability, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and overall healthcare infrastructure, all vital for patient outcomes.

Brockport, a small community nestled within Clearfield County, faces the challenges common to rural areas: limited resources and potential difficulties in accessing specialized healthcare. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

A fundamental aspect of lung cancer care is timely access to primary care physicians (PCPs). Early detection through regular screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is significantly more effective when patients have established relationships with PCPs who can identify risk factors and initiate appropriate referrals.

Data on physician-to-patient ratios in Brockport is crucial. Unfortunately, specific, up-to-the-minute figures for this precise ZIP code are often challenging to obtain publicly. However, we can infer general trends based on county-level statistics and regional healthcare provider networks. Clearfield County, like many rural regions, likely faces a shortage of primary care physicians compared to more urbanized areas. This scarcity can translate into longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Furthermore, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code matters. Are there multiple clinics, or is access concentrated in a single location? The physical accessibility of these clinics, including transportation options for patients, plays a vital role. The availability of evening or weekend hours also significantly impacts access for working individuals.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout primary care practices within Brockport is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening. They may implement robust systems for patient outreach, reminding high-risk individuals of the importance of annual checkups and screening guidelines.

These exemplary practices typically embrace evidence-based medicine, following the latest recommendations from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding lung cancer screening criteria. This includes offering LDCT scans to eligible patients, such as those aged 50-80 with a 20+ pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key indicator of a well-functioning practice. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between providers, enabling seamless referrals to specialists and sharing of patient information. They also allow for data analysis, helping practices track patient outcomes and identify areas for improvement in their care delivery.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to the geographical barriers prevalent in rural areas like Brockport. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who struggle with transportation or mobility issues.

The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Brockport is a crucial factor in our "Lung Cancer Score." Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are better equipped to provide timely and convenient care. This is particularly important for follow-up appointments after a lung cancer screening or for managing chronic conditions.

Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in Brockport. Virtual consultations can expedite referrals, provide expert opinions, and reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The fear, anxiety, and stress associated with the disease can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care.

Our "Lung Cancer Score" considers the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Do PCPs have access to mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, who can provide support to patients? Are there established referral pathways for patients who need mental health assistance?

Collaboration between PCPs and mental health providers is essential. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive holistic care, addressing both their physical and emotional needs. Access to support groups, counseling, and other mental health resources can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.

**Overall Healthcare Infrastructure and Community Support:**

Beyond the specific elements discussed above, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Brockport plays a significant role. This includes the presence of hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, and specialized cancer treatment facilities within a reasonable distance.

The availability of community resources, such as patient navigators, support groups, and educational programs, can also enhance the quality of care. Patient navigators help guide patients through the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. Support groups offer a safe space for patients to share their experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Brockport, PA (15823) is contingent on a multifaceted assessment of the healthcare landscape. Factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure all contribute to the community's preparedness to address lung cancer. While a precise score requires detailed, real-time data, this analysis highlights the critical components of a robust healthcare system that can improve outcomes for individuals at risk of or affected by lung cancer.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Brockport and surrounding areas, including the location of clinics, hospitals, and specialists, we encourage you to explore interactive maps. CartoChrome offers detailed mapping solutions that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.