15954, Seward, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15954, Seward, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.41 percent of the residents in 15954 has some form of health insurance. 56.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.07 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 15954 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 416 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15954. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 691 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,696 health care providers accessible to residents in 15954, Seward, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Seward, PA (ZIP Code 15954)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Seward, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15954) requires a multi-faceted approach, especially when considering the complexities of lung cancer care. This analysis will provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating key factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health support. This score is not a definitive ranking but rather an assessment of the relative strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The core of effective lung cancer care hinges on timely diagnosis and treatment. This starts with accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). Seward's primary care availability is a crucial starting point. We need to assess the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients might face longer wait times for appointments or struggle to find a physician accepting new patients. Furthermore, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are PCPs actively screening for lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking history and exposure to environmental hazards? Do they readily order appropriate diagnostic tests like chest X-rays or CT scans when indicated?

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is another critical factor. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer require specialized care, including accurate staging, treatment planning, and ongoing management. A lack of specialists in close proximity necessitates travel, which can be a significant burden for patients, especially those experiencing fatigue or other side effects from treatment. The presence of a local hospital with oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, is a major advantage.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend that can improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists who might not be readily available locally. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local practices is an important aspect of our Lung Cancer Score. Are local physicians utilizing telehealth platforms for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education?

Mental health support is often overlooked but is a crucial component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. The availability of mental health resources in Seward, including the presence of therapists, support groups, and access to psychiatric services, significantly impacts the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Assessing the quality of care provided by local practices involves evaluating several factors. The use of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment is essential. Are physicians adhering to the latest recommendations from organizations like the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)? The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as low-dose CT scans for early detection and targeted therapies, is also a factor.

Standout practices in the area are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. These practices might have implemented robust screening programs, actively involved patients in shared decision-making, and provided comprehensive support services, including patient navigators and support groups. Identifying these practices and highlighting their best practices can help improve the overall quality of care in the area.

The Lung Cancer Score for Seward, PA (15954) is complex, and a precise numerical score would be misleading without a comprehensive data analysis. However, we can assess the strengths and weaknesses based on the factors discussed. The score is likely impacted by the rural nature of the area. The physician-to-patient ratio could be a challenge, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments. The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is another area that might need further investigation.

Telemedicine adoption could be a positive factor, potentially mitigating some of the challenges associated with geographic isolation. Mental health resources are a critical component, and access to these services is a key element of the Lung Cancer Score. The quality of care provided by local practices, including the use of evidence-based guidelines and the availability of advanced technologies, is another important consideration.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Seward, PA (15954), and to identify specific practices and resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide detailed visualizations of healthcare resources in the area, including physician locations, hospital facilities, and mental health services.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Seward, PA (15954), and to explore the specific locations of physicians, hospitals, and mental health services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. This powerful tool allows for a deeper dive into the local healthcare landscape, providing valuable insights for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike.