15832, Driftwood, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15832, Driftwood, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.52 percent of the residents in 15832 has some form of health insurance. 65.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.09 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 15832 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15832. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 112 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 45 health care providers accessible to residents in 15832, Driftwood, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Driftwood, PA (ZIP Code 15832)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians and primary care resources available in Driftwood, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15832). The score considers factors critical to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, including physician availability, access to specialized care, integration of telemedicine, and the provision of mental health support. The goal is to offer a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape and its potential impact on individuals facing lung cancer or those at risk.

Driftwood, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population base often translates to a smaller pool of available physicians, potentially impacting access to care, particularly for specialized services like pulmonology and oncology. The availability of primary care physicians forms the foundation of this analysis, as they are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative screenings.

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

Accurately determining the physician-to-patient ratio in Driftwood requires careful consideration of the surrounding area and the catchment area of local healthcare providers. A simple calculation based solely on the ZIP code population can be misleading. This analysis considers the broader region, including neighboring towns and counties, to provide a more realistic assessment. Data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from healthcare directories and insurance provider networks, are used to estimate the number of primary care physicians serving the area.

The analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians accepting new patients. This is crucial, as delays in accessing care can negatively impact lung cancer outcomes. Factors like appointment wait times, office hours, and the acceptance of various insurance plans are also considered. The presence of urgent care facilities or walk-in clinics offering primary care services also contributes to the overall score, providing alternative access points for patients.

**Specialized Care Access and Standout Practices:**

The proximity and accessibility of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, significantly influence the Lung Cancer Score. This analysis investigates the distance to the nearest specialists, considering travel time and transportation options. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department or affiliation with a larger cancer center is a positive indicator.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating the quality of care offered by local providers. This includes factors like patient reviews, accreditations, and the use of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education, offering comprehensive support services, and actively participating in clinical trials are given higher ratings. The analysis also considers the integration of multidisciplinary care, where specialists from different fields collaborate to provide coordinated patient care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Driftwood. This analysis assesses the adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers. Factors considered include the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and follow-up care. Practices actively embracing telemedicine are recognized for their commitment to improving patient convenience and access to specialists.

The impact of telemedicine on lung cancer care extends beyond convenience. It can facilitate early detection through virtual consultations for symptom assessment, enable remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and provide access to specialists who may not be physically located in the area. The ability to conduct virtual tumor boards, where specialists collaborate remotely to discuss complex cases, can also improve treatment outcomes.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment often have a significant impact on patients' mental and emotional well-being. This analysis evaluates the availability of mental health resources within the community. This includes the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices and oncology departments is viewed favorably.

The analysis also considers the availability of other supportive care services, such as palliative care, nutritional counseling, and financial assistance programs. These services play a crucial role in improving patients' quality of life and helping them cope with the challenges of cancer treatment. The presence of a dedicated cancer support center or a partnership with a national cancer organization is a positive indicator.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score and Conclusion:**

The final Lung Cancer Score for Driftwood (ZIP Code 15832) is a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. The score reflects the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of lung cancer care available in the area. It is important to note that this score is a snapshot in time and can change as healthcare resources evolve.

The analysis highlights both the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Driftwood. While the limited population base may present challenges in terms of physician availability and specialized care access, the community's commitment to embracing telemedicine and providing supportive care can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The findings of this analysis underscore the importance of informed healthcare decision-making. Patients and their families should actively research available resources, ask questions of their healthcare providers, and advocate for their own needs.

**Call to Action:**

For a more detailed and interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape in Driftwood and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital affiliations, and access to specialized services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare resources available in your community and making informed decisions about your health.