15952, Salix, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15952, Salix, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.93 percent of the residents in 15952 has some form of health insurance. 40.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.38 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 15952 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 350 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15952. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,682 health care providers accessible to residents in 15952, Salix, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15952 and Primary Care in Salix

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer care within ZIP code 15952, specifically focusing on the availability of primary care in the nearby community of Salix. The goal is to evaluate factors impacting access to care, early detection, and overall patient outcomes. This analysis employs a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" framework, considering various aspects of the healthcare landscape.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care:**

A critical factor in lung cancer care is timely access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Salix, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability to screen for lung cancer, manage chronic conditions, and coordinate specialist referrals. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential challenges in securing appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio indicates greater accessibility, potentially improving early detection rates and patient outcomes. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio in Salix is crucial. Public health resources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health, may provide relevant data, but this needs to be verified.

The geographical distribution of PCPs within ZIP code 15952 and the surrounding areas is also important. Are PCPs concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Travel time to appointments can significantly impact a patient's willingness to seek care, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The presence of public transportation or ride-sharing services can mitigate these challenges.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices within and around ZIP code 15952 is vital. These practices may demonstrate superior performance in lung cancer screening, patient education, and care coordination. Examining their patient outcomes, screening rates, and adherence to national guidelines can provide valuable insights. A practice that actively promotes smoking cessation programs, utilizes evidence-based screening protocols (such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and facilitates seamless referrals to pulmonologists and oncologists would likely receive a higher "Lung Cancer Score."

These practices may also be more proactive in patient education, providing clear information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and available treatments. They may also offer support groups or resources for patients and their families. Identifying and understanding the best practices employed by these healthcare providers can offer a model for others in the region.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Salix. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in the area can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and access to specialist expertise.

The availability of reliable internet access is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine implementation. Examining the internet infrastructure in Salix and the surrounding areas is essential. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and secure communication platforms, would likely receive a higher "Lung Cancer Score."

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance:**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive lung cancer care. Examining the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within ZIP code 15952 and the surrounding areas is essential.

Do PCPs have established referral pathways to mental health services? Are there support groups or counseling services specifically for lung cancer patients and their families? Practices that prioritize mental health support, offering integrated behavioral health services or readily accessible referrals, would likely receive a higher "Lung Cancer Score."

**Specific Considerations for Salix:**

Given the location of Salix, a rural community, specific challenges and opportunities need to be considered. The availability of transportation is a critical factor. If public transportation is limited, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services may create barriers to accessing care.

The age demographic of Salix is also relevant. Older populations are at higher risk for lung cancer. The availability of geriatric specialists and resources tailored to the needs of older adults is important.

**Data Sources and Limitations:**

This analysis is based on a hypothetical framework. To create a truly accurate "Lung Cancer Score," reliable data from various sources is needed. These sources may include:

* **Public Health Agencies:** State and local health departments can provide data on physician-to-patient ratios, screening rates, and disease prevalence.
* **Healthcare Provider Databases:** Websites like the Pennsylvania Medical Society can provide information on physician locations and specialties.
* **Insurance Claims Data:** Analyzing insurance claims data can reveal patterns in healthcare utilization and access to care.
* **Patient Surveys:** Gathering feedback from patients can provide valuable insights into their experiences with the healthcare system.

The limitations of this analysis include the absence of real-time data. The "Lung Cancer Score" would be a dynamic metric, requiring continuous monitoring and updates.

**Conclusion:**

Evaluating the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 15952 and Salix requires a multifaceted approach. Access to primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the practices of standout providers all play a crucial role in lung cancer care. By analyzing these factors, we can identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

**Call to Action:**

To visualize the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 15952 and Salix, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can transform complex healthcare data into interactive maps, providing valuable insights into physician distribution, access to care, and other critical factors. Visit CartoChrome to learn more and discover how data visualization can improve healthcare outcomes.