16145, Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16145, Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.53 percent of the residents in 16145 has some form of health insurance. 43.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.09 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 16145 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 527 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16145. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 666 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,987 health care providers accessible to residents in 16145, Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sandy Lake, PA (ZIP Code 16145)**

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) and the overall healthcare landscape within ZIP code 16145, focusing on factors relevant to early detection and treatment of lung cancer. It considers physician availability, resource accessibility, and the adoption of modern healthcare practices. This score is not a definitive ranking, but rather an assessment based on publicly available data and industry best practices.

The foundation of a strong lung cancer care system lies in accessible and proactive primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Sandy Lake is a critical initial factor. While precise, real-time figures are often proprietary, publicly available data, such as those from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can offer a general estimate. If the ratio indicates a shortage of PCPs, it inherently presents a challenge. Fewer doctors mean potentially longer wait times for appointments, which could delay crucial screenings and diagnoses. This, in turn, negatively impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Accessibility is further impacted by the geographic distribution of practices. If the majority of PCPs are concentrated in a single area, patients in more remote parts of Sandy Lake might face transportation barriers. This geographical disparity can create disparities in healthcare access, leading to lower screening rates and, consequently, later-stage diagnoses of lung cancer. The availability of public transportation and the presence of ride-sharing services also influence accessibility, particularly for elderly or disabled patients.

A crucial element of the Lung Cancer Score is the adoption of evidence-based practices. This includes the implementation of lung cancer screening programs, specifically using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. PCPs should actively identify and counsel patients who meet the criteria outlined by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This involves a thorough assessment of smoking history, age, and other risk factors. The proactive initiation of these screening programs is a significant positive factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The ability of practices to efficiently manage patient data and communicate with specialists is also essential. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates seamless information sharing and improves coordination of care. EHRs allow PCPs to easily track patients' screening histories, share results with specialists, and manage follow-up appointments. Practices that have fully adopted EHRs and integrated them with other healthcare systems will generally score higher on this aspect of the Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, especially in rural areas like Sandy Lake. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs can significantly improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health services. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making healthcare more convenient for patients. Practices that offer telemedicine options will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as counseling and psychiatric services, is therefore an important factor in the Lung Cancer Score. PCPs who have established referral networks with mental health professionals will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to holistic patient care.

Standout practices in Sandy Lake, if any, should be identified. This requires an assessment of their specific services, patient satisfaction, and community involvement. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive screening, and comprehensive care will be recognized. This includes those that actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer and promote early detection.

The level of patient education is also crucial. PCPs should provide patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options. This education should be tailored to each patient's individual needs and circumstances. Practices that prioritize patient education will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is another critical factor. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is essential for preventing the disease. PCPs should offer or refer patients to evidence-based smoking cessation programs. These programs can include counseling, medication, and other support services. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation will receive a higher score.

The integration of technology extends beyond telemedicine. Practices that utilize patient portals for communication, appointment scheduling, and access to medical records demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and engagement. The use of these technologies can improve patient satisfaction and streamline healthcare delivery.

The Lung Cancer Score is also influenced by the availability of specialized care. While PCPs are the first point of contact, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists to Sandy Lake and the ease with which patients can access their services are important factors.

The overall community support system for cancer patients is also considered. This includes the availability of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and other resources. A strong community support system can help patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of lung cancer.

In summary, the Lung Cancer Score for Sandy Lake is a complex assessment that considers physician availability, evidence-based practices, technology adoption, mental health resources, and community support. While a precise numerical score requires more detailed data, this analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 16145 and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sandy Lake and surrounding areas, including the geographic distribution of PCPs, hospitals, and other resources, consider exploring **CartoChrome maps**. These maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare accessibility and resource availability.