15905, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15905, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.02 percent of the residents in 15905 has some form of health insurance. 40.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.31 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 15905 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,856 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15905. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,601 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,993 health care providers accessible to residents in 15905, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15905) & Primary Care Analysis

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer care and primary care access within Johnstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15905), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," attempts to gauge the availability, quality, and accessibility of care, focusing on factors crucial for successful patient outcomes. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the prominence of specific medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for individuals at risk or currently battling lung cancer in this specific geographic area.

The initial assessment focuses on physician-to-patient ratios. This metric is a foundational indicator of access. A higher ratio of patients per primary care physician (PCP) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. In Johnstown, the ratio needs careful examination. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, along with publicly available information from insurance providers, should be reviewed to determine the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the 15905 ZIP code. A ratio exceeding the national average may indicate a shortage of primary care physicians, placing a strain on the healthcare system. Further investigation into the availability of pulmonologists and oncologists is also essential. The ratio of these specialists to the population is a critical factor in determining the speed and quality of lung cancer care.

Beyond raw numbers, the analysis must identify standout medical practices within the Johnstown area. These practices are evaluated based on several criteria. First, the presence of board-certified pulmonologists and oncologists is paramount. Second, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans for early detection, is crucial. Third, the practice’s track record in treating lung cancer, including survival rates and patient satisfaction scores (where available), should be considered. These factors combine to paint a picture of the quality of care offered by each practice. Identifying practices that excel in these areas allows patients to make informed decisions about their care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. The analysis should determine which practices in the 15905 ZIP code offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., initial consultations, follow-up appointments, remote monitoring), and the ease of access to these services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely better positioned to provide timely and convenient care.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked, yet it is a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health services within the medical practices and the broader community. This includes identifying the presence of on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, and support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families. Practices that prioritize mental health support are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care.

Primary care availability is also crucial. A strong primary care foundation is essential for early detection and management of lung cancer. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The analysis should evaluate the accessibility of primary care within the 15905 ZIP code, considering factors such as appointment availability, insurance acceptance, and the geographic distribution of primary care practices. This assessment will help determine whether residents have easy access to the initial screening and diagnostic processes.

The "Lung Cancer Score" should also incorporate data on the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is essential for prevention and improved outcomes. The analysis should identify the types of programs available in Johnstown, including individual counseling, group therapy, and medication assistance. It should also assess the accessibility of these programs, including cost, location, and insurance coverage.

Further, the analysis should investigate the presence of community outreach programs. These programs can play a vital role in raising awareness about lung cancer, promoting early detection, and providing support to patients and their families. The analysis should identify any community-based organizations involved in lung cancer awareness and support, as well as the types of programs they offer.

Finally, the "Lung Cancer Score" should consider the overall socioeconomic factors that can influence health outcomes. These factors include poverty rates, access to healthy food, and environmental factors, such as air quality. These factors can impact a patient’s ability to access care and adhere to treatment plans.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape within the 15905 ZIP code requires a comprehensive analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, primary care accessibility, smoking cessation programs, community outreach efforts, and socioeconomic factors. This multifaceted approach allows for a more accurate assessment of the quality, accessibility, and availability of lung cancer care in Johnstown.

For a visual representation of this data, including geographic mapping of physician locations, patient demographics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas where improvements are needed.