16233, Leeper, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16233, Leeper, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.92 percent of the residents in 16233 has some form of health insurance. 37.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.52 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 16233 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 206 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16233. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 274 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 407 health care providers accessible to residents in 16233, Leeper, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Leeper, PA (ZIP Code 16233)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 16233, specifically focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources, is crucial for understanding the accessibility and quality of care for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer. This analysis will evaluate the existing infrastructure, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the region's capacity to address the multifaceted needs of lung cancer patients, from early detection to ongoing support.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. In Leeper, PA, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can offer insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. This data, combined with population estimates, allows for the calculation of a physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could signify potential access challenges, especially for those requiring regular check-ups, screenings, and referrals.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices within the area is significant. Are practices concentrated in specific locations, potentially creating geographical barriers for residents in more rural areas? Do practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, ensuring affordability for diverse patient populations? Investigating the accessibility of practices, including their hours of operation, appointment availability, and waiting times, is essential for a holistic assessment. This data, often gleaned from practice websites, patient reviews, and local health directories, paints a clearer picture of the practical challenges patients face.

Identifying standout practices within the region is crucial. These practices might excel in specific areas relevant to lung cancer care, such as early detection through advanced screening protocols, patient education programs, or coordinated care with specialists. Examining the practice's commitment to preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening guidelines adherence, is a key factor. Furthermore, the practice's ability to navigate the complexities of insurance coverage and patient financial assistance programs can significantly impact a patient's experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the analysis. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients facing mobility challenges or residing in remote areas. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services among primary care practices in the region, including the types of services offered and the technology utilized, provides valuable insights. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially enhance patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and improve overall care coordination.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial consideration. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the region. Are these professionals readily accessible, and do they have experience working with cancer patients? The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site counseling or readily available referrals, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Evaluating the integration of these elements – physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – allows for a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This score, though not a definitive grading, provides a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure in Leeper, PA. A high score would indicate a robust and accessible system, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement.

For example, a practice that demonstrates a commitment to early detection through routine screenings, offers telemedicine consultations, and has strong partnerships with mental health providers would contribute positively to the overall score. Conversely, a practice with limited appointment availability, a lack of telemedicine options, and no readily accessible mental health referrals would negatively impact the score.

The analysis should also consider the presence of specialized oncology services in the surrounding areas. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of patient care, access to oncologists, radiation therapists, and other specialists is critical for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of lung cancer. Assessing the proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists is essential.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of resources for patient navigation. Navigators can assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance programs. The presence of patient navigators, whether within primary care practices or through community organizations, can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of navigating the healthcare system.

Finally, the analysis should emphasize the importance of patient education and empowerment. Providing patients with access to reliable information about lung cancer, treatment options, and support services is crucial. This includes access to educational materials, support groups, and online resources. Practices that prioritize patient education and empower patients to actively participate in their care are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

By combining these elements, a comprehensive picture of the lung cancer care landscape in Leeper, PA, emerges. This analysis is not merely a statistical exercise; it is a call to action. It highlights the need for ongoing evaluation, continuous improvement, and a collaborative approach to ensure that all residents have access to the best possible care.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape of Leeper, PA (ZIP code 16233), including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the potential of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of resources and identifying potential areas for improvement.