15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.53 percent of the residents in 15943 has some form of health insurance. 46.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.66 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 15943 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 937 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15943. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 837 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,313 health care providers accessible to residents in 15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis for Nanty Glo, PA (ZIP Code 15943)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians within ZIP code 15943, specifically focusing on primary care availability in Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania. This score considers factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment access, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in this specific area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the context of lung cancer care.

The foundation of a strong lung cancer care system rests on accessible primary care. Nanty Glo, a small borough in Cambria County, faces challenges common to rural communities: potential shortages in healthcare professionals and geographical barriers to specialized care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and delayed diagnoses. Accurate data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 15943 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) should be consulted to establish a baseline understanding. If the ratio is unfavorable, it necessitates exploring strategies to improve access, such as incentivizing physicians to practice in the area or expanding telehealth services.

Standout practices within the region are pivotal in raising the Lung Cancer Score. These practices are defined by their commitment to proactive lung cancer screening, utilizing low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. They also emphasize smoking cessation programs, offering counseling and pharmacological interventions to support patients in quitting. Furthermore, exceptional practices integrate a multidisciplinary approach, involving primary care physicians, pulmonologists, radiologists, and oncologists in patient care. Researching local practices, identifying those with robust screening programs, and evaluating their patient outcomes will significantly influence the Lung Cancer Score. This includes examining the number of LDCT scans performed, the percentage of eligible patients screened, and the rates of early-stage lung cancer detection.

Telemedicine is a powerful tool for improving access to care, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in Nanty Glo is a crucial factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. The Lung Cancer Score will be positively impacted by the availability of telehealth services for pulmonology consultations, smoking cessation counseling, and mental health support. Assessing the technological infrastructure of local practices, including their internet connectivity and the types of telehealth platforms used, is essential. The presence of telehealth capabilities can significantly reduce barriers to care and improve patient outcomes.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for providing comprehensive care. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in Nanty Glo, including the number of mental health professionals, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services, is essential. Integration of mental health support into primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, is highly beneficial.

Beyond individual practice assessments, the overall healthcare ecosystem within the region must be considered. This includes the presence of local hospitals and their capabilities in diagnosing and treating lung cancer. Evaluating the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as PET/CT scans, and the presence of qualified pulmonologists and oncologists is vital. The proximity of the local hospital to Nanty Glo and its ability to handle complex lung cancer cases directly influences the Lung Cancer Score. The existence of support groups and patient advocacy organizations within the community also contributes to a higher score. These groups provide emotional support, education, and resources for patients and their families.

The Lung Cancer Score for Nanty Glo, PA (15943) is not simply a numerical value; it's a reflection of the community's ability to provide accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. The score is determined by evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. Each of these factors is weighted based on its impact on lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The higher the score, the better equipped the community is to address the challenges of lung cancer.

This analysis, while informative, provides a snapshot. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in Nanty Glo and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and the availability of specialized services, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and its impact on lung cancer care.