15901, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15901, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.68 percent of the residents in 15901 has some form of health insurance. 67.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.24 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 15901 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 583 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15901. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 738 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,022 health care providers accessible to residents in 15901, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15901)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of lung cancer care within ZIP code 15901, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the resources available to patients and identify areas for improvement. The analysis is designed to inform both patients seeking care and healthcare providers aiming to enhance their services.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. In Johnstown, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor influencing early detection and treatment outcomes. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may face challenges in securing timely appointments for routine screenings or addressing concerning symptoms. Conversely, a higher density of PCPs, coupled with efficient appointment scheduling systems, can facilitate earlier detection of lung cancer through proactive screening programs and prompt referrals to specialists. This directly impacts the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a key metric in evaluating healthcare accessibility. A favorable ratio, indicating a higher concentration of physicians relative to the population, typically translates to reduced wait times for appointments and increased opportunities for personalized care. Conversely, a low ratio can strain the healthcare system, potentially leading to longer wait times, reduced patient-physician interaction, and compromised quality of care. This is especially significant in a region like Johnstown, where the population may face socioeconomic challenges that further exacerbate healthcare access issues.

Identifying standout practices within the 15901 ZIP code is crucial. These practices often demonstrate best practices in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Factors to consider include the adoption of evidence-based guidelines, utilization of advanced diagnostic technologies (such as low-dose CT scans), and the availability of multidisciplinary care teams comprising pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and offer comprehensive patient support services, including smoking cessation programs and patient navigators, are also highly valued. These elements contribute significantly to a practice's Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and deliver educational resources can significantly enhance access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The extent of telemedicine integration within practices in 15901, including the availability of virtual follow-up appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs, and patient education platforms, directly impacts the overall Lung Cancer Score. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health resources play an often-overlooked but essential role in lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for supporting patients through their treatment journey. The availability of these resources within the 15901 ZIP code, including on-site mental health services, referrals to mental health specialists, and support groups, contributes to the overall Lung Cancer Score. Practices that prioritize mental health integration demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

Evaluating the specific practices within the 15901 ZIP code requires a detailed assessment of their individual capabilities. This includes examining the qualifications of their physicians, the equipment and technologies available, their patient outcomes, and their commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to these factors will receive higher Lung Cancer Scores. The analysis will also consider the accessibility of these practices, including their location, hours of operation, and insurance acceptance policies.

The analysis will also consider the degree of coordination between primary care physicians and specialists. Effective communication and collaboration between these healthcare providers are essential for ensuring seamless patient care. Practices that facilitate this coordination through electronic health records, shared care plans, and regular communication will receive higher scores. The presence of dedicated care coordinators who assist patients in navigating the healthcare system also contributes positively to the overall score.

Smoking cessation programs are another critical component of lung cancer care. These programs help patients quit smoking, reducing their risk of developing lung cancer and improving their overall health. Practices that offer comprehensive smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, will receive higher Lung Cancer Scores. The availability of these resources is a critical element of a comprehensive approach to lung cancer prevention and treatment.

The analysis will also consider the availability of financial assistance programs for patients. Cancer treatment can be extremely expensive, and many patients struggle to afford the cost of care. Practices that offer financial counseling, assistance with insurance claims, and information about available financial aid programs will receive higher Lung Cancer Scores. This reflects a commitment to ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Finally, the analysis will assess the level of community outreach and education efforts undertaken by healthcare providers in the 15901 ZIP code. Practices that actively participate in community events, provide educational materials, and conduct lung cancer screening programs will receive higher Lung Cancer Scores. This demonstrates a commitment to raising awareness about lung cancer and promoting early detection. This overall score will reflect the level of resources available to patients in the 15901 ZIP code.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Johnstown, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide a dynamic and user-friendly way to visualize healthcare resources and make informed decisions about your care.