16217, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16217, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16217 has some form of health insurance. 71.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.65 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 16217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 49 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 405 health care providers accessible to residents in 16217, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Cooksburg, PA (ZIP Code 16217)

This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within Cooksburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16217), focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and resource utilization. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” perspective, considering factors crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and overall patient well-being. This analysis is not a formal ranking but a qualitative assessment.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection, facilitated by regular screenings and proactive patient education, is paramount. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Cooksburg is the first critical element. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally translates to more accessible appointments, reduced wait times, and potentially more personalized care. However, obtaining precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratio data for a specific ZIP code can be challenging. Publicly available resources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), offer some data, but it may be generalized to larger geographic areas. Further investigation would involve contacting local hospitals, clinics, and primary care practices to gather more specific information.

Beyond physician numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices are crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have established protocols for lung cancer screening, including recommending low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals (those with a history of smoking and other risk factors)? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is also vital. EHRs facilitate seamless communication between PCPs and specialists, ensuring that patient information is readily available and treatment plans are coordinated effectively.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor. Telemedicine, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has proven its worth. It allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, potentially improving access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Cooksburg. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more convenient and timely care, particularly for patients who may have difficulty traveling. The availability of telemedicine also extends the reach of specialists, allowing patients to consult with pulmonologists or oncologists without having to travel long distances.

The presence of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also essential for a comprehensive lung cancer care score. While Cooksburg might not have these specialists within its immediate boundaries, access to them through referral networks is vital. The proximity to larger medical centers, such as those in nearby cities, is a significant factor. The ease with which patients can access these specialists, considering travel time and appointment availability, directly impacts the overall quality of care. Furthermore, the presence of a multidisciplinary cancer care team, including surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses, is crucial for providing comprehensive treatment.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This could involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with local support organizations.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Cooksburg also considers the presence of patient education programs. These programs can empower patients to understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects. They can also provide information on smoking cessation, which is crucial for improving outcomes and preventing recurrence. The availability of these programs, whether offered by primary care practices, hospitals, or community organizations, enhances the overall quality of care.

Assessing specific practices within the area requires in-depth investigation. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating their commitment to early detection, their use of evidence-based guidelines, their patient satisfaction scores, and their integration of technology. This could involve reviewing online reviews, surveying patients, and contacting practices directly to gather information.

The overall score would be a synthesis of these factors, weighted according to their relative importance. Physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, access to specialists, mental health resources, and patient education programs would all contribute to the final assessment. The analysis should also consider the presence of community resources, such as support groups and smoking cessation programs.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Cooksburg, PA (ZIP Code 16217) is ultimately a reflection of the community's commitment to providing high-quality, accessible, and comprehensive lung cancer care. The availability of resources, the integration of technology, and the focus on patient well-being are all crucial elements. While a precise numerical score is beyond the scope of this analysis, the framework outlined provides a comprehensive perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare landscape.

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