16250, Sagamore, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16250, Sagamore, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.62 percent of the residents in 16250 has some form of health insurance. 33.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.22 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 16250 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 202 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16250. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 22 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 531 health care providers accessible to residents in 16250, Sagamore, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sagamore, PA (ZIP Code 16250)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians and related healthcare resources in Sagamore, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16250), focusing on factors relevant to early detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, particularly concerning lung cancer care. This is not a definitive ranking but an evaluation of available resources and their potential impact on patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or at high risk. The availability of PCPs directly influences the likelihood of timely screening and diagnosis.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Accessibility:**

Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 16250 requires accessing data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or local hospital systems. However, based on publicly available information and general demographic data, Sagamore, being a small community, likely experiences challenges common to rural areas. This might include a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to urban centers. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the crucial initial assessment for suspected lung cancer cases.

The physical accessibility of primary care practices is another critical factor. Geographic isolation, limited public transportation, and the presence of physical barriers (e.g., lack of wheelchair accessibility) can further impede access to care. The analysis should consider the proximity of primary care practices to the population, as well as the availability of transportation assistance programs.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. This includes assessing the practice's commitment to preventative care, such as offering lung cancer screening (e.g., low-dose CT scans) for eligible patients. Practices that proactively implement screening protocols and educate patients about lung cancer risks are more likely to contribute to early detection.

Another factor is the practice's integration of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, allowing PCPs to easily share patient information with specialists, track screening results, and manage treatment plans. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are likely to provide more comprehensive and coordinated care.

Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Positive feedback regarding physician-patient communication, empathy, and responsiveness to concerns can indicate a practice that prioritizes patient well-being.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in Sagamore could significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who face transportation challenges or live in remote areas.

Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing PCPs to assess symptoms, provide advice, and even prescribe medications. It can also be used for remote monitoring of patients with lung cancer, allowing physicians to track their progress and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans. The availability of telemedicine platforms, the ease of use for both patients and physicians, and the integration of telemedicine services into the practice's workflow are all important considerations.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive lung cancer care. Primary care practices should ideally have established relationships with mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, to provide timely referrals.

The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can also be beneficial. These groups provide a platform for patients to connect with others who are facing similar challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to these resources demonstrate a commitment to addressing the holistic needs of their patients.

**Specific Considerations for Sagamore:**

Given the potential for rural challenges in Sagamore, the analysis must account for specific factors. This includes the availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable driving distance. The presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists in the surrounding area is critical for ensuring access to advanced treatment options.

The analysis should also consider the prevalence of smoking in the community, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. Practices that offer smoking cessation programs and resources are contributing to a healthier community and reducing the risk of lung cancer.

**Overall Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed above, a Lung Cancer Score for Sagamore would be determined. This score would reflect the overall strength of the healthcare resources available in the area, specifically in relation to lung cancer care. The score would consider physician availability, screening practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and access to specialized care.

This analysis is not a definitive ranking but an evaluation of the resources available. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sagamore and surrounding areas, further investigation and data collection are necessary.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare resources in Sagamore, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and its impact on the community.