16226, Ford City, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16226, Ford City, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.12 percent of the residents in 16226 has some form of health insurance. 39.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.73 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 16226 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,748 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16226. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,648 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 615 health care providers accessible to residents in 16226, Ford City, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ford City, PA (ZIP Code 16226)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians and primary care availability within Ford City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16226). This score considers factors crucial for early detection, treatment access, and overall patient well-being, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape. The evaluation focuses on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all of which directly impact the quality of care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

Ford City, a small borough in Armstrong County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The area’s demographics, including an aging population and potential socioeconomic factors, influence the demand for and availability of healthcare services. Understanding these nuances is critical to accurately assessing the Lung Cancer Score.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Early detection often hinges on regular checkups and screenings, which are facilitated by a robust network of primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP Code 16226 is a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within the 16226 ZIP code is the first step. This involves analyzing the number of PCPs actively practicing within the area and comparing it to the population size. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and state medical boards can be utilized for this calculation.

The availability of primary care also extends beyond the raw number of physicians. Factors like the acceptance of new patients, insurance coverage accepted, and office hours significantly impact accessibility. Practices accepting Medicare and Medicaid are particularly important in a community with a potentially large elderly population. Furthermore, the presence of urgent care clinics or walk-in facilities can bridge gaps in primary care access, especially for individuals experiencing symptoms that require immediate attention. The Lung Cancer Score considers these factors, evaluating the ease with which residents can obtain timely primary care services.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices involves assessing their commitment to lung cancer screening and treatment protocols. This includes evaluating their adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those established by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that actively promote and facilitate low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screenings for high-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers with a significant smoking history) are considered highly favorable.

Beyond screening, the quality of care extends to treatment options. Practices with established relationships with oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists are crucial. The availability of multidisciplinary care, where specialists collaborate to develop comprehensive treatment plans, is a significant positive indicator. Practices that offer access to clinical trials or innovative therapies also contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score. Assessing the practice's utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to share patient information seamlessly with other healthcare providers is another important factor, promoting coordinated care and preventing medical errors.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Geographic Gap:**

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score, particularly in rural areas like Ford City. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable. Practices that offer telehealth services for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations receive a higher score.

The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer screening and treatment is a significant advantage. This includes virtual consultations with pulmonologists to discuss symptoms and treatment options, as well as remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The adoption of telemedicine also extends to patient education and support groups, which can be delivered virtually, providing crucial resources and support to individuals affected by lung cancer. Assessing the types of telehealth platforms used, their ease of use, and the level of patient satisfaction with these services is essential.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Emotional Burden:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on mental health. The Lung Cancer Score must incorporate the availability of mental health resources within the community. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with patients facing serious illnesses.

The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, is also a positive indicator. Support groups provide a safe space for patients and their families to share experiences, cope with emotional challenges, and receive peer support. The availability of resources that address the financial and social challenges associated with lung cancer, such as assistance with transportation, medication costs, and social services, also contributes to a higher score. Evaluating the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including referrals to mental health professionals and access to support groups, is crucial.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Ford City (ZIP Code 16226) is a dynamic assessment that requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Factors such as physician availability, practice performance, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all contribute to the overall score. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and access the best possible care.

To gain a more granular, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ford City, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to explore **CartoChrome maps**. These interactive maps provide a detailed, geographically-based view of healthcare resources, allowing you to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.