15828, Clarington, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15828, Clarington, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.68 percent of the residents in 15828 has some form of health insurance. 65.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.55 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 15828 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 27 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15828. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 79 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 231 health care providers accessible to residents in 15828, Clarington, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15828 & Primary Care Availability in Clarington

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 15828, focusing on aspects crucial for lung cancer screening and treatment, particularly in the context of Clarington, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors that influence patient access to care and the overall healthcare landscape relevant to lung cancer detection and management.

Clarington, a rural community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access. Distance to specialists, limited transportation options, and a smaller pool of healthcare providers can all contribute to delayed diagnoses and treatment for conditions like lung cancer. The availability of robust primary care is therefore paramount, acting as the initial point of contact and the gateway to specialized services.

One key metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential difficulties in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship. While precise ratios for 15828 are difficult to obtain without direct access to proprietary healthcare data, publicly available information and regional averages can provide a general understanding. We must consider that the rural nature of the area likely translates to a higher patient load per physician compared to more urban settings. This necessitates a focus on efficiency and innovative service delivery models.

Standout practices within the ZIP code, or those serving the area, would be those demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening. This involves actively promoting screening guidelines, educating patients about risk factors (smoking history, age, etc.), and facilitating access to low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans. Practices that proactively identify high-risk patients and implement screening programs are crucial. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate easy access to patient history and test results is essential for efficient care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." In a rural area like Clarington, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and participate in educational programs without the need for extensive travel. Practices that offer telehealth options for routine checkups, medication management, and even initial consultations for suspected lung cancer cases significantly improve patient access and convenience. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is, of course, a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

The mental health of patients is a critical, often overlooked, aspect 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, either within the primary care practice or through referrals to external providers, is therefore a significant component of the "Lung Cancer Score." Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This is particularly important in a rural setting, where access to mental health services may already be limited.

Beyond the individual practices, the broader healthcare ecosystem within Clarington plays a role. The presence of a local hospital or clinic equipped to handle lung cancer diagnoses and treatment is crucial. This includes access to diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation therapy services. The proximity of these resources, and the ease of access to them, directly impacts the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. Collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists is essential for seamless care coordination.

Another factor to consider is the availability of patient support groups and educational resources. Lung cancer patients and their families often benefit from connecting with others who have similar experiences. Support groups provide emotional support, share practical advice, and foster a sense of community. Practices that actively inform patients about these resources and encourage participation contribute to a more comprehensive and supportive care environment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in 15828 and primary care availability in Clarington would ideally be based on a composite of these factors. It would consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of proactive screening programs, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized cancer care within the region. It would also assess the ease of access to these resources, considering factors like transportation options and appointment wait times.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to identify areas where healthcare access and quality can be improved, particularly for patients at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the existing healthcare infrastructure, we can work towards creating a more supportive and effective environment for cancer prevention, detection, and treatment.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape in Clarington and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare access and help identify potential areas for improvement.