15902, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15902, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.00 percent of the residents in 15902 has some form of health insurance. 57.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.69 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 15902 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,491 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15902. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,031 health care providers accessible to residents in 15902, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of lung cancer care within ZIP code 15902, encompassing the city of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of medical professionals but also the infrastructure supporting their practice and the overall well-being of the patient population. This report delves into the current state of lung cancer care, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing a comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” assessment.

Johnstown, like many communities, faces challenges in healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists per 1,000 residents provides a baseline. A lower ratio, particularly for specialists, can lead to delayed diagnoses, treatment, and poorer patient outcomes. The analysis must consider the geographic distribution of these specialists within the ZIP code and surrounding areas, accounting for travel times and accessibility. Rural areas often experience shortages, and Johnstown’s location might exacerbate this.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. This involves evaluating hospitals and clinics that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer care. Factors to consider include the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scans for early detection, the presence of a multidisciplinary team (pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists), and the utilization of evidence-based treatment protocols. Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) can serve as indicators of quality. Specific practices should be named, and their strengths highlighted. For example, a practice known for its robust screening program, its high success rate in minimally invasive surgical procedures, or its commitment to clinical trials would score favorably.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect. Telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps, improve access to specialists, and facilitate follow-up care. The analysis should assess the extent to which practices in 15902 utilize telemedicine for consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the ease of use of telehealth platforms, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care pathway. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine and provide accessible virtual care will receive a higher score.

The integration of mental health resources into lung cancer care is often overlooked, yet it is essential. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, within the practices and the broader community. Does the practice offer on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals? Are support groups available for patients and their families? The presence of these resources, and their integration into the treatment plan, is a critical factor in the overall “Lung Cancer Score.”

Primary care availability in Johnstown is a crucial element. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The analysis must evaluate the number of PCPs available, their accessibility, and their ability to effectively screen for lung cancer. This includes assessing the availability of appointments, the PCP’s knowledge of lung cancer risk factors, and their willingness to order appropriate diagnostic tests. A robust primary care network, capable of early detection and timely referrals, will contribute positively to the overall score.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is not simply a numerical ranking. It is a holistic assessment, considering the interplay of various factors. It would be helpful to create a scoring system. For example, physician-to-patient ratios could account for 20% of the score, the presence of standout practices 30%, telemedicine adoption 20%, mental health integration 20%, and primary care availability 10%. Each factor would be evaluated based on specific criteria, and a weighted average would be calculated to arrive at the final score. This score would then provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the quality of lung cancer care in 15902.

The limitations of this analysis must be acknowledged. Data availability can be a challenge. Precise physician-to-patient ratios may require data from various sources. Patient outcomes, such as survival rates, are crucial indicators, but obtaining and analyzing this data can be complex. The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes, such as poverty, education levels, and access to healthy food.

In conclusion, evaluating lung cancer care in 15902 requires a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape. The physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of primary care all contribute to the overall quality of care. A well-defined scoring system, based on objective criteria, can provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the current state of lung cancer care and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician availability, and patient demographics within ZIP code 15902 and the surrounding areas, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that allow you to explore the data and gain insights into the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and other relevant factors. Explore CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and improve the understanding of the healthcare landscape.