16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.82 percent of the residents in 16114 has some form of health insurance. 31.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.36 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 16114 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 138 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16114. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 129 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,685 health care providers accessible to residents in 16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Clarks Mills, PA (ZIP Code 16114)

This analysis examines the availability of resources relevant to lung cancer care within ZIP Code 16114 (Clarks Mills, PA) and its surrounding areas, focusing on primary care physician access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to provide an informed assessment of the healthcare landscape for individuals facing lung cancer or at risk of developing the disease. While a definitive "Lung Cancer Score" is complex and multifaceted, this analysis offers a qualitative evaluation based on available data and insights.

The primary care physician (PCP) landscape is crucial for early detection and ongoing management of lung cancer. In Clarks Mills and its surrounding areas, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in rural Pennsylvania often reveals a shortage of PCPs compared to urban areas. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Access to a PCP is the first line of defense, enabling regular check-ups, discussion of risk factors (smoking history, family history), and ordering of necessary diagnostic tests like low-dose CT scans. The availability of these screenings is directly impacted by PCP access.

Standout practices in the region, if any, would be those demonstrating a proactive approach to lung cancer screening and patient education. This includes actively promoting smoking cessation programs, educating patients on the importance of early detection, and efficiently coordinating referrals to specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists) when necessary. Such practices typically have well-established systems for patient follow-up, ensuring timely results and appropriate care pathways. Identifying such practices requires deeper investigation, including reviewing patient testimonials, examining practice websites for detailed information on services, and potentially contacting local healthcare organizations for recommendations.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to specialists. The ability to consult with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists via telehealth platforms can significantly improve patient outcomes. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to offer a more convenient and accessible level of care, particularly for patients who live a significant distance from specialized cancer centers. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires researching individual practices' websites and contacting them directly to inquire about their telehealth capabilities.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and potential recurrence can be immense. Access to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is vital for providing support and managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of these resources in the Clarks Mills area needs to be assessed. This involves researching local mental health providers, support groups, and hospital-based programs. Ideally, practices should have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is another crucial element. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and successful cessation significantly reduces the risk. The existence of local smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, is a positive indicator. These programs should be easily accessible and integrated into the primary care setting. Practices that actively promote and offer smoking cessation services demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and reducing lung cancer incidence.

The overall healthcare infrastructure in the region is also important. This includes the proximity of specialized cancer centers, hospitals with advanced diagnostic equipment, and radiation therapy facilities. Patients in Clarks Mills may need to travel to larger cities like Pittsburgh or Erie for specialized treatment. The availability of transportation services, such as community shuttles or volunteer driver programs, can greatly improve access to care for patients who lack reliable transportation.

Assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Clarks Mills, PA, requires gathering information from several sources. This includes publicly available data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice websites, and local healthcare organizations. Direct inquiries to practices and hospitals are essential to understand their specific services and capabilities. Patient testimonials and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

The analysis should consider the following:

* **PCP Availability:** Assess the physician-to-patient ratio and appointment wait times.
* **Screening Practices:** Evaluate the availability of low-dose CT scans and adherence to screening guidelines.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** Determine the extent to which practices offer telehealth consultations.
* **Mental Health Support:** Assess the availability of mental health services and referral pathways.
* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** Evaluate the availability and accessibility of smoking cessation resources.
* **Specialist Access:** Determine the proximity of cancer centers and specialists.
* **Transportation:** Assess the availability of transportation services for patients.

The final assessment should provide a clear overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Clarks Mills, PA, and identify areas where improvements are needed. It should highlight the availability of resources and the potential challenges faced by patients. A well-rounded analysis will help individuals in the community make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for better access to lung cancer care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Clarks Mills, PA, and explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.