15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15847 has some form of health insurance. 66.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.67 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 15847 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15847. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 11 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,253 health care providers accessible to residents in 15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Knox Dale (ZIP Code 15847)

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment within and around the Knox Dale area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 15847. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the available support systems, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and offering insights into potential areas for improvement. The focus is on primary care access and the availability of services that directly impact lung cancer outcomes.

The foundation of any robust lung cancer strategy begins with accessible primary care. In Knox Dale, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios is essential. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, limited preventative screenings, and overall reduced access to care. This analysis requires data on the number of practicing PCPs within a reasonable radius of 15847, coupled with the population data of the surrounding communities. This information will paint a picture of the local access to primary care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are practices actively promoting lung cancer screening for eligible patients, particularly those with a smoking history or other risk factors? Do they utilize evidence-based guidelines for screening, diagnosis, and referral? The analysis will delve into the practices’ adherence to these standards. This includes evaluating the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate efficient data sharing and coordination of care.

Standout practices will be identified based on their commitment to patient-centered care, preventative services, and early detection. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education, offering resources on smoking cessation, healthy lifestyle choices, and the importance of regular check-ups. They may also have specialized programs tailored to high-risk individuals.

Telemedicine adoption is another key indicator. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. This is especially important for individuals with mobility issues or those facing transportation challenges. The analysis will determine the extent of telemedicine implementation among local practices, evaluating the types of services offered virtually (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education).

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, regardless of the type, can take a significant toll on a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. Therefore, the availability of mental health support within the local healthcare ecosystem is crucial. This analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists) within the primary care practices or nearby, as well as the availability of mental health services that are easily accessible to patients.

The presence of support groups, counseling services, and other resources that address the emotional and psychological needs of cancer patients is another important aspect of the analysis. These resources can help patients cope with the stress and uncertainty associated with their diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will examine the availability and accessibility of these support systems.

The analysis will also consider the local infrastructure supporting lung cancer care. This includes the proximity to hospitals equipped with advanced diagnostic imaging (e.g., CT scanners) and treatment facilities (e.g., radiation therapy centers). The availability of specialized oncology services, such as medical oncologists and pulmonologists, is essential for providing comprehensive care. The analysis will determine the travel times to these facilities.

Furthermore, the analysis will evaluate the availability of patient navigation services. Patient navigators help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing education, and offering emotional support. Their presence can significantly improve patient outcomes. The analysis will determine if patient navigation services are available in the local area.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is critical for lung cancer prevention. These programs provide support and resources to help individuals quit smoking, reducing their risk of developing lung cancer. The analysis will assess the availability and accessibility of these programs in the Knox Dale area.

The analysis will also consider the affordability of healthcare services. The cost of lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment can be substantial. The analysis will examine the availability of financial assistance programs and resources to help patients manage the costs of their care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for Knox Dale (15847) requires a multi-faceted assessment. It encompasses physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized oncology services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the local healthcare landscape, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This analysis will help patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers make informed decisions about lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment in the community.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in Knox Dale and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome’s maps can provide a visual representation of the data analyzed, allowing for a deeper understanding of the local healthcare resources.