15868, Weedville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15868, Weedville, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.91 percent of the residents in 15868 has some form of health insurance. 43.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.17 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 15868 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 396 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15868. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 455 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 641 health care providers accessible to residents in 15868, Weedville, Pennsylvania.

The task requires an assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer care within Weedville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15868), focusing on primary care availability and related factors. This analysis will not produce a numerical “Lung Cancer Score” but rather a qualitative evaluation of the available resources, incorporating physician-to-patient ratios, practice highlights, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Weedville for lung cancer patients.

Weedville, Pennsylvania, is a small, rural community. Access to healthcare, particularly specialized care, is often a challenge in such areas. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment necessitate a multidisciplinary approach, involving primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and often, surgeons. The availability and coordination of these specialists are crucial.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is a fundamental step. The US Department of Health & Human Services designates areas with shortages of primary care physicians (PCPs) as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). Examining the ratio of PCPs to the population in 15868 would provide a baseline understanding of primary care accessibility. If the area is designated an HPSA, it suggests a potential bottleneck in accessing initial consultations, screenings, and ongoing care. Information on the specific ratio in Weedville can be found through the HRSA website. This ratio is a crucial metric because primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, such as a persistent cough or shortness of breath, which may indicate lung cancer.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of the existing primary care practices are paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors like appointment availability, patient reviews, and the range of services offered. Do these practices offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing with specialists? Do they participate in insurance networks that are widely accepted in the area? These details are essential for understanding the practical realities of accessing care. Practices that actively promote preventive screenings, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, would be particularly beneficial.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in rural healthcare. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is especially important for lung cancer patients, who may need to travel long distances for consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. Evaluating the telemedicine capabilities of local primary care practices and the availability of telehealth services from specialists who serve the area is vital. Does the local hospital offer telemedicine consultations? Are there specialists in nearby cities who offer telehealth appointments? The ability to access these services can dramatically improve the patient experience and reduce the burden of travel.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for lung cancer patients. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Weedville is essential. Are there mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), practicing in the area? Do primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services? Are there support groups or counseling services specifically for cancer patients? The availability of these resources can significantly impact a patient's overall well-being and their ability to cope with the physical and emotional demands of treatment.

The availability of support services beyond medical care is also important. This includes access to social workers, financial counselors, and patient navigators who can assist patients with navigating the healthcare system, accessing financial assistance, and coordinating their care. Does the local hospital or any cancer centers in the surrounding area offer these services? These support services can alleviate some of the practical and financial burdens associated with a lung cancer diagnosis.

Specific information on practices in the area, including their adoption of technology and the availability of supportive services, can be obtained through online searches, insurance provider directories, and local hospital websites. However, a comprehensive assessment would require direct contact with the practices themselves.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare resources for lung cancer patients in Weedville, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health and supportive services are all critical factors. While the challenges of rural healthcare are undeniable, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers and the utilization of innovative technologies like telemedicine can significantly improve the outlook for lung cancer patients in this community.

For a detailed, visual representation of healthcare resources in Weedville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive, data-rich maps that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.