16117, Ellwood City, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16117, Ellwood City, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.40 percent of the residents in 16117 has some form of health insurance. 41.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.89 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 16117 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,760 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16117. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,491 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,427 health care providers accessible to residents in 16117, Ellwood City, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ellwood City, PA (ZIP Code 16117)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within the 16117 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability and related factors impacting lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement within the local healthcare landscape. This assessment considers factors beyond simple physician counts, delving into practice characteristics, resource accessibility, and the integration of supportive services.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is early detection, which relies heavily on the accessibility and quality of primary care. In Ellwood City, primary care availability is a critical determinant of the Lung Cancer Score. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, a limited number of primary care physicians serving a population of approximately 7,500 residents suggests a potentially strained system. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, impacting the timely scheduling of screenings and diagnostic tests. This is a significant factor in the overall score.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to proactive lung cancer screening. This includes actively promoting screening guidelines, educating patients about risk factors (smoking history, family history), and facilitating timely referrals to pulmonologists and radiologists for low-dose CT scans. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to identify at-risk patients and proactively reach out to them for screening are highly valued. The implementation of patient navigation programs, which assist patients through the complex process of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, also significantly enhances a practice's score.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in Ellwood City. Telehealth consultations can facilitate remote screening reviews, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support, all of which contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are considered to be more progressive and patient-centered.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and its treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the practice or through readily accessible referral networks, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans, offering counseling services, support groups, or referrals to mental health specialists, receive a higher score. This holistic approach to patient care is vital for improving quality of life and treatment outcomes.

The integration of smoking cessation programs is another crucial element. Primary care physicians play a pivotal role in helping patients quit smoking, the leading cause of lung cancer. Practices that actively offer or refer patients to evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, demonstrate a commitment to preventive care and significantly improve their Lung Cancer Score. The effectiveness of these programs and the percentage of patients successfully quitting smoking are also considered.

Beyond the direct care provided by physicians, the availability of supporting services also impacts the Lung Cancer Score. This includes access to diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The proximity of these services, as well as the efficiency of the referral process, are critical. Practices that have strong relationships with local hospitals and specialists, ensuring seamless transitions for patients requiring specialized care, are rated more favorably.

The overall Lung Cancer Score is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of various factors. A higher score indicates a more robust healthcare environment, with better access to primary care, proactive screening practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and smoking cessation resources. Conversely, a lower score suggests potential areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, enhancing screening protocols, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and integrating mental health services. The score is dynamic, reflecting the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve patient care and outcomes.

Data analysis and continuous monitoring are essential for improving the Lung Cancer Score. Healthcare providers should regularly assess their practices, identify areas for improvement, and implement strategies to enhance patient care. This includes tracking screening rates, monitoring patient outcomes, and evaluating the effectiveness of smoking cessation programs. The use of data-driven insights can help guide decision-making and ensure that resources are allocated effectively.

The Lung Cancer Score analysis for Ellwood City highlights the importance of a multi-faceted approach to healthcare. Improving access to primary care, promoting proactive screening, embracing telemedicine, integrating mental health support, and providing smoking cessation resources are all essential components of a comprehensive lung cancer care strategy. The success of this strategy depends on the collaboration of healthcare providers, patients, and community organizations.

Finally, a comprehensive understanding of healthcare resources, including physician locations, facility locations, and service availability, is crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of these resources, allowing for a clearer understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ellwood City and surrounding areas. **Explore the healthcare landscape of Ellwood City and visualize the data that matters most. Visit CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to you and your community.**