15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.91 percent of the residents in 15906 has some form of health insurance. 60.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.99 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 15906 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,590 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15906. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,236 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,052 health care providers accessible to residents in 15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15906)

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within Johnstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15906), evaluating the availability and quality of services, focusing on primary care access and the overall healthcare infrastructure crucial for early detection and management of this serious disease. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local resources available to patients and highlight areas for potential improvement. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on accessible and robust primary care. Early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is significantly impacted by the ease with which patients can access their primary care physicians. Johnstown, like many communities, faces challenges in healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in rural areas like Johnstown often reveals a shortage of primary care physicians compared to urban centers. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary screenings and diagnoses.

Standout practices are those that actively address these challenges. Identifying practices that prioritize preventative care, including proactive lung cancer screening programs for eligible patients (e.g., those with a significant smoking history), is paramount. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient education, informing individuals about the risks of lung cancer and the benefits of early detection. Furthermore, practices that integrate care coordination, ensuring seamless communication between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists, are highly valuable.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations in some cases, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in geographically isolated areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies can expand their reach and provide more convenient access to specialized care, potentially reducing the burden on patients and improving overall outcomes. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on reliable internet access and patient familiarity with the technology.

Beyond the purely medical aspects, mental health resources play a vital role in lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and its aftermath can be profoundly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or chronic illness is crucial. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families.

The analysis of lung cancer care in Johnstown necessitates a close examination of the local healthcare infrastructure. This includes the presence of specialized pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, as well as the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as advanced imaging equipment and radiation therapy facilities. The proximity of these resources and the ease with which patients can access them significantly impact the quality of care. Collaboration between hospitals, clinics, and specialists is essential to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to lung cancer management.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited health literacy can all exacerbate the challenges faced by lung cancer patients. Practices that are aware of these factors and actively work to address them, such as providing financial assistance, transportation support, or culturally sensitive patient education materials, are crucial in ensuring equitable access to care.

The effectiveness of lung cancer screening programs is also a key consideration. The implementation of these programs, including identifying eligible patients, scheduling screenings, and providing timely follow-up care for any abnormalities detected, is essential for improving early detection rates. Practices that actively participate in these programs and have established protocols for managing positive screening results demonstrate a commitment to preventative care.

Evaluating the overall quality of care requires assessing patient outcomes. This includes tracking survival rates, monitoring complication rates, and gathering patient feedback on their experiences. Practices that actively collect and analyze this data are better positioned to identify areas for improvement and implement evidence-based practices.

The availability of palliative care services is another critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, regardless of the stage of the disease. Access to palliative care specialists, including physicians, nurses, and social workers, can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients and their families.

In conclusion, the landscape of lung cancer care in Johnstown (ZIP code 15906) is complex, influenced by factors ranging from physician-to-patient ratios to the availability of mental health resources. Understanding these nuances is essential for improving patient outcomes and ensuring that individuals affected by lung cancer receive the best possible care. The ability to map and visualize these factors is crucial for understanding the geographic distribution of resources and identifying areas where improvements are needed.

**To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Johnstown and visualize the distribution of resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to analyze healthcare data, identify areas of need, and visualize the availability of resources. Visit CartoChrome today to unlock a more comprehensive view of lung cancer care in your community.**