16131, Hartstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16131, Hartstown, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.61 percent of the residents in 16131 has some form of health insurance. 41.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.14 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 16131 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16131. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 184 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,261 health care providers accessible to residents in 16131, Hartstown, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 16131, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection and patient care, and then extends to assess primary care availability in Hartstown, Pennsylvania. The score is hypothetical, based on publicly available information and assumptions, and should not be considered a definitive or absolute ranking. The focus is on highlighting relevant factors and providing a framework for understanding healthcare access and quality in these areas.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 16131**

The Lung Cancer Score (LCS) is calculated based on several key indicators, each contributing to a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape within the specified ZIP code. This includes factors directly impacting lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support.

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

A fundamental aspect of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio of patients per PCP can indicate potential challenges in scheduling appointments, timely screenings, and overall patient management. Assessing the number of PCPs actively practicing within 16131, and comparing this to the estimated population of the area, provides a baseline. This data, however, needs to be supplemented by information on specialist availability, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, as these are critical for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists to the primary care practices significantly impacts the LCS.

**Standout Practices & Screening Protocols:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their commitment to preventative care, specifically lung cancer screening. This includes adherence to guidelines established by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which recommend annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals meeting specific criteria (e.g., age, smoking history). Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings, have established referral pathways to specialists, and track patient outcomes will score higher. Information on the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to identify at-risk patients and manage screening programs is also crucial.

**Telemedicine Adoption & Patient Convenience:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Its adoption within 16131, and the extent to which PCPs utilize telehealth for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations, contributes to the LCS. Practices offering telemedicine options can improve patient convenience, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth can also facilitate quicker access to specialists and mental health services, which are vital for patients dealing with a cancer diagnosis.

**Mental Health Resources & Supportive Care:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as access to therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a critical component of the LCS. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, or have strong referral networks to mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of patient navigators or social workers who can assist patients in navigating the healthcare system and accessing support services is also a positive indicator.

**Data Sources & Limitations:**

The LCS relies on publicly available data, including information from insurance provider directories, online physician profiles, and hospital websites. However, this data may not always be comprehensive or up-to-date. Additionally, the analysis is limited by the availability of specific information on screening protocols, telemedicine usage, and mental health integration within each practice. Direct patient feedback, which is not included in this analysis, would provide invaluable insights into the patient experience.

**Lung Cancer Score: Hartstown Primary Care Availability**

Extending the analysis to Hartstown, Pennsylvania, requires assessing the availability of primary care services within the town's immediate vicinity. This includes evaluating the number of PCPs serving the population, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the accessibility of transportation options. The LCS considers the distance patients must travel to access primary care, the availability of after-hours care, and the presence of any barriers to access, such as language or financial constraints.

**Accessibility & Geographic Considerations:**

Hartstown, as a more rural area, may face challenges related to healthcare access. The LCS considers the geographic distribution of primary care practices, the availability of public transportation, and the average travel time to reach a PCP. Areas with limited access to transportation or a scarcity of healthcare providers will likely receive a lower score. The presence of community health centers or mobile health clinics, which can extend healthcare services to underserved populations, can positively impact the LCS.

**Specialist Referrals & Continuity of Care:**

The ability of Hartstown PCPs to refer patients to specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is essential. The LCS considers the availability of specialist services in nearby towns or cities, the efficiency of referral processes, and the continuity of care between primary care and specialist providers. Practices with established relationships with specialists and a coordinated approach to patient management will contribute to a higher score.

**Community Health Initiatives & Awareness:**

The LCS also considers the presence of community health initiatives focused on lung cancer prevention and early detection. This includes public awareness campaigns, smoking cessation programs, and educational resources. Practices that actively participate in these initiatives and promote healthy lifestyles within the community will be recognized.

**Conclusion**

The Lung Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access and quality in specific areas. While this analysis is based on available data and assumptions, it highlights critical factors that impact lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in their communities.

For a more detailed visual representation of healthcare access and availability, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a comprehensive view of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points.