16239, Marienville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16239, Marienville, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 33.83 percent of the residents in 16239 has some form of health insurance. 24.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 21.15 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 16239 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 263 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16239. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 520 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7 health care providers accessible to residents in 16239, Marienville, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Marienville, PA (ZIP Code 16239)**

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources in Marienville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16239), specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" framework, evaluating the accessibility and effectiveness of primary care physicians, specialists, and supportive services within the community. This score is not a single number but rather a composite of various indicators, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape.

**Primary Care Physician Availability**

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy is robust primary care. In Marienville, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. While precise figures require access to proprietary datasets, we can infer based on publicly available information and regional trends. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, potentially leading to higher patient-to-physician ratios. A higher ratio means each PCP is responsible for a larger patient population, which can impact appointment availability and the time spent with each patient. This, in turn, can affect the ability to conduct thorough screenings and provide timely interventions.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond simple physician numbers. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening, are highly valued. This includes those that actively promote smoking cessation programs, offer low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, and have established protocols for managing patients with suspicious findings. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can streamline patient care, improve communication between providers, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. The presence of certified lung cancer screening centers, adhering to national guidelines, is a significant positive indicator.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role**

Telemedicine offers a valuable solution to address the geographic challenges often encountered in rural areas. Its adoption rate is a critical factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially increasing access to expert opinions. This is particularly important for lung cancer, where access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists is crucial. Practices that have integrated telemedicine into their workflow, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, are considered more favorably in this analysis. The availability of telehealth services for mental health support is also significant, as a cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance**

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups within the community is assessed. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either directly or through referrals, are highly valued. This includes offering counseling services, support groups for patients and their families, and resources for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The ability to access mental health support, particularly during and after treatment, is a key factor in improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

**Specialist Availability and Coordination of Care**

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialists is paramount. This includes pulmonologists (lung specialists), oncologists (cancer specialists), radiologists, and thoracic surgeons. The geographic proximity of these specialists is a crucial factor. Long travel distances can create barriers to accessing timely care. The presence of a multidisciplinary cancer care team, where specialists collaborate to develop and implement treatment plans, is highly desirable. This team approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care. The coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists is also assessed, including the use of shared electronic health records and clear communication protocols.

**Smoking Cessation Programs**

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. The availability and effectiveness of smoking cessation programs are therefore a key indicator. This includes programs that offer counseling, medication, and support to help individuals quit smoking. Practices that actively screen patients for tobacco use, provide brief interventions, and refer patients to evidence-based cessation programs are highly valued. The success rates of these programs are also considered. A community that actively promotes smoking cessation efforts is better positioned to reduce lung cancer incidence.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score Framework**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a composite of these factors. It's not a simple numerical score but rather a qualitative assessment based on the availability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare resources. The factors are weighted based on their relative importance. Primary care physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources carry significant weight. The presence of certified lung cancer screening centers, smoking cessation programs, and coordinated care are also highly valued. The analysis considers the challenges of rural healthcare, including physician shortages and transportation limitations.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

The healthcare landscape in Marienville, PA (ZIP code 16239) presents unique challenges and opportunities. Understanding the availability of resources, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the commitment to preventative care is crucial for improving lung cancer outcomes. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Marienville and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations that can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care.