The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15945, Parkhill, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15945 has some form of health insurance. 17.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 91.77 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 15945 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 61 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15945. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,231 health care providers accessible to residents in 15945, Parkhill, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 15945, Parkhill, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score | 91 |
---|---|
People Score | 69 |
Provider Score | 78 |
Hospital Score | 69 |
Travel Score | 49 |
15945 | Parkhill | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Parkhill, PA (ZIP Code 15945)
This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians and primary care resources within ZIP Code 15945 (Parkhill, Pennsylvania), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. This score is not a definitive ranking but rather a synthesized evaluation based on publicly available data and industry best practices. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to offer insights that can inform patient choices and highlight areas for potential improvement in local healthcare.
Parkhill, a community nestled within Cambria County, faces the typical challenges of rural healthcare access. These challenges are amplified when considering the complexities of lung cancer, a disease often requiring specialized care and a multidisciplinary approach. The analysis below provides a framework to understand the current state of resources and identify potential strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**
The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Early detection is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios is critical. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health provides insights into the availability of PCPs within the 15945 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. A low ratio (more patients per physician) suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative screenings, which are essential for early lung cancer detection. Conversely, a higher ratio indicates better accessibility.
The analysis must also consider the distribution of PCPs within the community. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating access barriers for residents in more remote locations within Parkhill? Furthermore, the types of practices – solo practitioners, group practices, or those affiliated with larger healthcare systems – can influence the range of services offered and the availability of specialists. Group practices and those affiliated with larger systems often have greater resources, including access to specialists and advanced diagnostic equipment.
**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**
Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the presence of board-certified pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists within the practice or through affiliations. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scanners (essential for lung cancer screening), is also a critical indicator. Practices actively participating in lung cancer screening programs, adhering to national guidelines (such as those from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force), and offering smoking cessation programs are also considered positively.
The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share patient information seamlessly across different providers are also important. This facilitates communication and coordination of care, which is vital in managing a complex disease like lung cancer. Practices with a strong track record of patient outcomes, as measured by publicly available data (if available), are also considered high-performing.
**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**
Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by practices in Parkhill is a key factor in the Lung Cancer Score analysis. The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care visits, specialist consultations (pulmonology, oncology), and follow-up appointments can significantly improve access to care for patients who may face transportation challenges or reside in remote areas.
The types of telemedicine platforms used (e.g., secure video conferencing, remote monitoring) and the integration of these platforms into the practice’s workflow are also important. Practices that offer remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, for example, can provide more proactive care and improve patient outcomes. The ability to transmit diagnostic images and other medical information securely through telemedicine platforms is also a significant benefit.
**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support:**
Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score analysis. This includes assessing the availability of mental health professionals (therapists, counselors, psychiatrists) within the practices themselves or through referrals.
The presence of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources that provide emotional support and practical assistance to patients and their families is also considered. Practices that actively screen for depression and anxiety and offer or refer patients to appropriate mental health services are viewed favorably. Furthermore, the integration of palliative care services, which focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life, is a key indicator of comprehensive care.
**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**
The Lung Cancer Score analysis for Parkhill (ZIP Code 15945) is a complex undertaking, and the final score is a synthesized evaluation of the factors discussed above. The score provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape and highlights areas of strength and potential improvement. The analysis aims to empower patients with information and guide them toward the best possible care.
Access to primary care, the presence of specialists, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall score. The goal is to provide a comprehensive view of the healthcare environment and identify opportunities to improve the quality of care for individuals affected by lung cancer.
To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Parkhill and the surrounding areas, including the location of practices, physician specialties, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, helping you to make informed decisions about your health.
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