16235, Lucinda, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16235, Lucinda, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.64 percent of the residents in 16235 has some form of health insurance. 28.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.07 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 16235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 308 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16235. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 233 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 454 health care providers accessible to residents in 16235, Lucinda, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Lucinda, PA (ZIP Code 16235)

This analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare resources in Lucinda, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16235), with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer care. The goal is to assess the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to residents, considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This information is crucial for patients, their families, and healthcare providers seeking to navigate the complexities of lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on a robust primary care infrastructure. In Lucinda, primary care availability is a critical factor. Assessing this involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas that serve Lucinda residents. This includes family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative screenings, and overall poorer health outcomes. A high ratio, conversely, suggests potentially better access to care, allowing for earlier detection and intervention.

Furthermore, the geographical distribution of PCPs is important. Are physicians clustered in specific areas, leaving some residents with limited access? Travel time to a primary care physician is a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The availability of evening and weekend appointments also impacts accessibility, allowing patients to seek care without disrupting their work or daily routines.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This encompasses the expertise of the physicians, their commitment to preventative care, and their ability to coordinate care with specialists. Do local PCPs actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, such as those recommended for high-risk individuals? Do they offer smoking cessation programs or refer patients to such services? These proactive measures are essential in early detection and prevention.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of healthcare access. Analyzing this ratio involves calculating the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents within the ZIP code and comparing it to regional and national averages. A significantly lower ratio may indicate a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and decreased access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more favorable environment for patients seeking primary care.

Identifying standout practices within the Lucinda area is crucial. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. Do they offer comprehensive services, including on-site diagnostic testing, such as X-rays or bloodwork? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication and care coordination? Are they actively engaged in patient education and outreach programs? Practices that excel in these areas are likely to provide a higher level of care.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Lucinda. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among local PCPs is essential. Do they offer virtual consultations for routine check-ups, medication refills, or follow-up appointments? Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. It can also reduce travel time and costs, making healthcare more accessible and convenient.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of lung cancer care, yet they are critical. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Access to mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is essential for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Evaluating the availability of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community is important. Are there support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families? Are mental health services integrated into the primary care setting?

The availability of these resources is a strong indicator of the level of support available to patients. Strong integration of mental health services with primary care and oncology services is ideal.

The assessment also considers the availability of specialized care. While Lucinda may not have a large number of oncologists or pulmonologists, the proximity to larger medical centers in surrounding areas is important. What is the travel time to the nearest cancer center? Are there established referral pathways between local PCPs and specialists? The ability to access specialized care in a timely manner is crucial for optimal lung cancer treatment.

Furthermore, the quality of care provided by specialists is also important. This includes their expertise, their access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and their participation in clinical trials. The ability to access cutting-edge treatments and participate in research can significantly improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Lucinda, PA (ZIP code 16235) is a complex metric reflecting the interplay of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialized care. A comprehensive assessment of these factors is essential for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area and for identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lucinda, including the geographical distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps available at CartoChrome. Use CartoChrome to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.