15934, Elton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15934, Elton, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 15934 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 15934 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15934. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,188 health care providers accessible to residents in 15934, Elton, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Elton, PA (ZIP Code 15934)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for the Elton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15934) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, a critical factor in early detection and effective treatment of lung cancer. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of lung cancer care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, enabling informed decision-making for residents and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, facilitated by a strong patient-physician relationship, significantly improves survival rates. In Elton, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial indicator of access to care. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments and potentially more personalized care. Data from various sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health and national databases, will be utilized to determine the physician-to-patient ratio within the 15934 ZIP code. This data will be benchmarked against both state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care in Elton.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" requires an examination of individual practices. This involves evaluating factors like the availability of preventive services, including lung cancer screening programs, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and patient satisfaction. Practices that proactively offer screening to high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history of lung cancer) will score higher. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) also plays a crucial role. EHRs facilitate data sharing, improve care coordination, and enable physicians to track patient history, including smoking habits and previous screenings, more effectively.

Identifying standout practices involves a deeper dive. We will look for practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing resources about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection. Practices that have a dedicated patient navigator or care coordinator to guide patients through the screening and treatment process will also be highly regarded. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and oncologists, within the same practice or network significantly enhances the quality of care. This integrated approach streamlines communication and improves patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the "Lung Cancer Score." Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, offers several advantages, particularly in rural areas like Elton. It can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and facilitate follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual visits for routine check-ups, medication management, and counseling, will receive a higher score. The availability of remote monitoring devices, allowing physicians to track patients' vital signs and symptoms from a distance, also contributes positively.

The mental health component of the "Lung Cancer Score" is often overlooked, but it is critical. A lung cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including counseling, therapy, and support groups, within the community is crucial. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and provide referrals to appropriate services will be viewed favorably. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential to provide comprehensive care. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The assessment of mental health resources will involve evaluating the availability of licensed therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups within the Elton area and surrounding communities. We will also consider the accessibility of these resources, including insurance coverage and wait times. Practices that actively promote mental health awareness and provide resources to patients will score higher. This includes providing information about local support groups, mental health hotlines, and online resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Elton, PA (15934) will be a composite score, reflecting the factors discussed above. It will be a dynamic assessment, subject to change as healthcare services evolve. The score will be a tool for residents to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, and for healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement. This analysis will not provide a single numerical score but rather a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Elton, PA (15934) will be a reflection of the community's commitment to providing accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive care for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer. This includes the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of their practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services.

This analysis is intended to provide a general overview of the healthcare landscape in Elton, PA (15934). It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Residents are encouraged to consult with their primary care physicians and other healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their health.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Elton, PA (15934), and visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations, allowing you to explore physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data in a user-friendly format.