15942, Mineral Point, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15942, Mineral Point, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.75 percent of the residents in 15942 has some form of health insurance. 42.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.98 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 15942 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 474 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15942. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 420 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,210 health care providers accessible to residents in 15942, Mineral Point, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mineral Point, PA (ZIP Code 15942)

This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care availability in Mineral Point, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15942), focusing on factors crucial for patient outcomes. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all viewed through the lens of their impact on lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions.

Mineral Point, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural setting often translates to lower physician density compared to urban areas. Therefore, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potential difficulties in accessing specialized care. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can be used to estimate this ratio. However, this data needs to be contextualized. The presence of nearby hospitals and specialty clinics, even if located outside the immediate ZIP code, can significantly influence the accessibility of care for residents.

Evaluating individual medical practices within the 15942 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. Identifying standout practices involves examining several factors. Firstly, the experience and expertise of the physicians, particularly in pulmonology and oncology, are paramount. Board certifications, years of practice, and affiliations with reputable hospitals are key indicators of physician quality. Secondly, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scanners for lung cancer screening, is crucial. Early detection is a cornerstone of successful treatment. Practices that proactively offer screening programs and adhere to established guidelines demonstrate a commitment to preventative care.

Furthermore, the integration of multidisciplinary care is essential. Lung cancer treatment often involves a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses. Practices that foster collaboration among these specialists and offer coordinated care pathways are likely to provide superior patient outcomes. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive and personalized treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. The availability of telehealth services can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and potentially lead to earlier interventions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering secure video consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to serve their patients effectively. The ease of access to these services is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to patient-centered care.

The analysis also considers the availability of mental health resources. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and offer access to counseling, support groups, or psychiatric services demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Integration of mental health services into the care continuum is a marker of a practice's commitment to addressing the emotional and psychological needs of patients. This can include on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with community organizations.

The assessment of primary care availability is equally vital. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a critical role in preventative care, early detection of lung cancer risk factors, and overall patient health management. A strong primary care infrastructure, with readily accessible PCPs, can significantly improve health outcomes. Factors to consider include the number of PCPs per capita, appointment availability, and the range of services offered, such as smoking cessation programs. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and regular health screenings, are likely to contribute to earlier detection and improved outcomes.

The analysis should also consider the presence of community resources and support systems. Local organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or lung cancer support groups, can provide invaluable assistance to patients and their families. These resources offer emotional support, educational materials, and practical guidance throughout the cancer journey. The proximity and accessibility of these resources contribute to the overall quality of care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 15942 requires a multifaceted evaluation. It necessitates assessing physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the strength of the primary care infrastructure. This detailed analysis, based on publicly available data and practice-specific information, provides a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mineral Point. The goal is to empower residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Mineral Point, including the location of medical practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare infrastructure, allowing you to see the distribution of resources and identify potential gaps in care.