15958, Summerhill, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15958, Summerhill, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.42 percent of the residents in 15958 has some form of health insurance. 40.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.83 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 15958 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 421 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15958. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 448 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 948 health care providers accessible to residents in 15958, Summerhill, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Summerhill, PA (ZIP Code 15958)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians and primary care availability within Summerhill, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15958). The evaluation considers factors crucial to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific area, aiding residents in making informed decisions about their health.

The core of a successful lung cancer management strategy hinges on timely diagnosis and effective treatment. This, in turn, is profoundly influenced by the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Summerhill, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may face difficulties securing timely appointments for check-ups, screenings, and the initial assessment of potential symptoms. Conversely, a higher ratio, suggesting a greater availability of PCPs, generally translates to improved access to care, increasing the likelihood of early detection and intervention. Data on this ratio requires specific local investigation, incorporating factors like the number of active PCPs, the total population of Summerhill, and the patient load capacity of each practice. This data is essential to understanding the baseline level of access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Summerhill is crucial. These practices often distinguish themselves through factors such as their commitment to preventative care, their utilization of advanced diagnostic tools, and their patient-centered approach. Examining practices for their adoption of the latest lung cancer screening guidelines, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, is crucial. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated nurse navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, significantly improves patient outcomes. The existence of practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research programs also suggests a commitment to providing cutting-edge care. This information requires direct investigation of local practices.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Summerhill. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, including increased access to specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally. It also reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for consultations, which can be a significant barrier to care. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of telemedicine options for both primary care and specialist consultations. Examining the types of telemedicine platforms used (e.g., video conferencing, remote monitoring), the scope of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs), and the ease of access for patients is crucial.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the availability of mental health services within Summerhill, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. The proximity of these resources to primary care practices and cancer treatment centers is also important. The score considers the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, such as the availability of integrated behavioral health specialists within primary care practices or cancer centers.

Evaluating the availability of resources for smoking cessation is another key aspect of the Lung Cancer Score. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and successful cessation significantly reduces the risk of developing the disease. The score assesses the availability of smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, within Summerhill. It also considers the integration of smoking cessation interventions into primary care practices. Practices that proactively screen patients for smoking status and offer evidence-based cessation interventions receive higher scores.

The assessment also considers the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, including lung cancer. It addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the availability of palliative care specialists, hospice services, and pain management resources within Summerhill. The integration of palliative care into the overall treatment plan is also considered.

The Lung Cancer Score for Summerhill, PA, will be a dynamic assessment, requiring ongoing monitoring and updates. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and care models emerging regularly. Regular reviews of the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and other relevant factors are necessary to maintain an accurate and relevant assessment.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Summerhill provides a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare resources available to residents. It emphasizes the importance of primary care access, the quality of care provided by local practices, the utilization of telemedicine, the availability of mental health support, and the availability of smoking cessation and palliative care services. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Summerhill.

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