15860, Sigel, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15860, Sigel, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.24 percent of the residents in 15860 has some form of health insurance. 42.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.63 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 15860 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 194 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15860. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 283 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 167 health care providers accessible to residents in 15860, Sigel, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15860 & Primary Care in Sigel

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within ZIP Code 15860, focusing on their preparedness and resources related to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and patient support. Furthermore, it examines the availability and quality of primary care services in the nearby community of Sigel, Pennsylvania, with a particular emphasis on factors influencing lung cancer outcomes. This assessment considers various aspects, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The overall LCS is a composite score, incorporating factors that directly and indirectly impact a patient's experience and outcomes in the context of lung cancer. It's crucial to understand that this analysis is a snapshot based on publicly available data and general observations. Individual physician practices and patient experiences may vary.

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

The foundation of any effective healthcare system is adequate access to primary care. In the context of lung cancer, this means timely access to screening, diagnosis, and ongoing management. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is a critical first step. The analysis considers the number of PCPs actively practicing within ZIP Code 15860 and the estimated population served. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and reduced opportunities for preventative care.

For Sigel, the analysis considers the proximity of primary care facilities and the ability of residents to access these services. Geographic barriers, transportation limitations, and the availability of specialists in nearby towns are all factors. The presence of a robust primary care network in Sigel is vital, as it provides the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care.

**Standout Practices: Identifying Excellence in Lung Cancer Care:**

Within ZIP Code 15860, the analysis seeks to identify practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care. This involves evaluating several key indicators. First, the analysis looks for practices actively participating in lung cancer screening programs, particularly those utilizing low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. The implementation of screening protocols aligned with the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations is a significant positive factor.

Second, the analysis considers the practices' ability to facilitate timely referrals to specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. Efficient communication and collaboration between PCPs and specialists are essential for a seamless patient experience. Practices that have established strong referral networks and demonstrate a history of positive patient outcomes receive higher scores.

Third, the analysis evaluates the practices' commitment to patient education and support. This includes providing patients with information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or access to patient navigators are viewed favorably.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Expanding Access and Convenience:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially in rural areas. Its ability to bridge geographical gaps and provide convenient access to care is particularly relevant in the context of lung cancer. The analysis assesses the adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in ZIP Code 15860.

Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals receive higher scores. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and educational sessions, reducing the need for in-person visits and improving patient convenience. The availability of telemedicine also allows patients to connect with specialists located further away, expanding access to expertise.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Psychological Impact:**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive lung cancer care. The analysis considers the access to mental health services for patients of PCPs in ZIP Code 15860.

Practices that have established relationships with mental health professionals, either within their own practice or through external referrals, receive higher scores. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. The availability of support groups and educational resources focused on coping with the emotional challenges of lung cancer is also considered. Practices that prioritize the mental health of their patients demonstrate a holistic approach to care.

**Specific Considerations for Sigel:**

Given Sigel's proximity to ZIP Code 15860, the analysis also considers the availability of primary care services within Sigel itself. This includes assessing the number of PCPs practicing in Sigel, their hours of operation, and the types of services offered. The analysis also considers the distance to the nearest hospitals and specialist centers.

The analysis considers the availability of transportation options for patients in Sigel to access primary care services and specialist appointments. Limited transportation can be a significant barrier to care, particularly for elderly or low-income individuals. The analysis also assesses the availability of community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance, to help patients manage the challenges of lung cancer.

**Conclusion:**

This Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a preliminary assessment of the primary care landscape in ZIP Code 15860 and the surrounding community of Sigel, Pennsylvania. The overall LCS is a dynamic measure that will change as healthcare practices evolve and access to care improves.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of PCPs, specialists, and hospitals, and to visualize the accessibility of care, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This will provide a more detailed and visually informative perspective on the healthcare landscape in this region.