15920, Armagh, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15920, Armagh, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.46 percent of the residents in 15920 has some form of health insurance. 51.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.58 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 15920 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 48 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15920. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 243 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,114 health care providers accessible to residents in 15920, Armagh, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Armagh, PA (ZIP Code 15920)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within the Armagh, PA area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 15920. The assessment considers factors crucial for effective lung cancer management, including physician availability, resource allocation, and innovative healthcare practices. While a formal “score” is not assigned due to the complex and multifaceted nature of healthcare evaluation, this analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, particularly regarding lung cancer.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. Their role in early detection through screening and referral is paramount. In Armagh, the primary care physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and other relevant sources, such as the US Census Bureau, should be consulted to determine the current ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to primary care services. This ratio is a crucial component in assessing the overall health of the community.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is essential. Are primary care practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving other parts of Armagh underserved? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or community health centers that cater to underserved populations? Understanding the geographical distribution of PCPs provides a more nuanced view of access to care. Furthermore, the specific training and experience of the PCPs in the area should be considered. Are there PCPs with specialized training in pulmonary medicine or oncology? This can improve the quality of care.

The presence of pulmonologists and oncologists is another critical factor. These specialists are directly involved in diagnosing and treating lung cancer. The number of pulmonologists and oncologists practicing within a reasonable distance of Armagh, and their patient-to-physician ratios, are important indicators of access to specialized care. The proximity of these specialists to the local population is also important. Are there any regional hospitals or cancer centers that provide specialized lung cancer care? The quality of care provided at these facilities, including the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like CT scans and PET scans, should be assessed.

Standout practices within the Armagh area should be identified. This could include practices that have demonstrated a commitment to early detection through robust screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals. Practices that have integrated patient navigation programs, which help guide patients through the complex healthcare system, are also noteworthy. These programs can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, who often face multiple appointments and treatments. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials or offer access to cutting-edge treatments should be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption is an increasingly important factor in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, particularly for patients who live far from major medical centers. The availability of telemedicine consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists can significantly improve the quality of care. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local practices should be assessed. Are practices using telehealth for follow-up appointments, medication management, or patient education? The availability of telehealth can significantly improve patient access to care.

Mental health resources are crucial for lung cancer patients. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is a critical aspect of comprehensive cancer care. The availability of mental health professionals in the area, and their ability to provide specialized care for cancer patients, should be assessed. Are there any support groups or other resources available to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of lung cancer?

The availability of ancillary services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nutritional counseling, is also important. These services can help patients manage the physical side effects of treatment and improve their overall quality of life. The presence of these services in the area, and their accessibility to lung cancer patients, should be considered.

The availability of financial assistance programs is another important factor. Lung cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients may struggle to afford the cost of care. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or the Lung Cancer Research Foundation, can help patients manage the financial burden of treatment.

The overall quality of care for lung cancer patients in Armagh, PA, is dependent on a multitude of factors, including physician availability, access to specialized care, the adoption of innovative healthcare practices, and the availability of mental health resources and ancillary services. By assessing these factors, we can gain a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. The information gathered in this analysis can be used to inform policy decisions, improve healthcare delivery, and ultimately, improve the outcomes for lung cancer patients in the Armagh area.

For a visual representation of physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant healthcare data within ZIP code 15920, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape in Armagh, PA, and help you better understand the factors that influence lung cancer care in the area.