16258, Strattanville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16258, Strattanville, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.19 percent of the residents in 16258 has some form of health insurance. 34.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.85 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 16258 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 314 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16258. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 441 health care providers accessible to residents in 16258, Strattanville, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Strattanville, PA (ZIP Code 16258)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services in Strattanville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16258), with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, considering aspects beyond basic medical access, such as early detection initiatives, mental health resources, and the utilization of modern technologies like telemedicine.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care pathway is a robust primary care system. In Strattanville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the general availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and surrounding areas is paramount. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can hinder timely access to screenings, diagnostic testing, and referrals to specialists. Conversely, a higher ratio, while seemingly positive, doesn't guarantee quality. The skill, experience, and commitment of the individual physicians are equally important.

Assessing the quality of care requires looking beyond simple numbers. Are there any standout practices in Strattanville or nearby areas? These practices might be recognized for their proactive approach to preventative care, including robust lung cancer screening programs for high-risk individuals (e.g., smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history). Do they actively promote smoking cessation programs, a crucial element in reducing lung cancer incidence? Furthermore, how well-equipped are these practices to manage the complex needs of patients diagnosed with lung cancer? This includes the ability to coordinate care with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients living in rural areas like Strattanville. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can potentially improve outcomes by reducing travel burdens and enabling more frequent communication between patients and their care teams.

Beyond the physical aspects of care, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of the "Lung Cancer Score." A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Does the primary care system in Strattanville have established connections with mental health professionals? Are referrals readily available? Are there support groups or counseling services specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients and their families? A comprehensive approach to care must address the emotional and psychological well-being of patients alongside their physical health.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Strattanville must also consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the presence of local hospitals or clinics capable of performing diagnostic tests, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the gold standard for early lung cancer detection in high-risk individuals. Are these facilities equipped with state-of-the-art technology? Do they have experienced radiologists specializing in thoracic imaging? The availability of advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, within a reasonable distance is also a key consideration.

Furthermore, the accessibility of information and patient education materials is important. Are there resources available in Strattanville to help patients understand their risk factors, recognize the symptoms of lung cancer, and navigate the healthcare system? This includes educational materials about smoking cessation, early detection, and treatment options. The more informed patients are, the better equipped they are to advocate for their own health and make informed decisions about their care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static measure. It should be continually evaluated and updated based on changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking advancements in lung cancer screening and treatment, as well as changes in the availability of healthcare providers and resources. Regular monitoring allows for the identification of areas for improvement and the implementation of strategies to enhance the quality of care for patients in Strattanville.

The analysis of Strattanville’s healthcare system, particularly concerning lung cancer care, is complex. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects a multifaceted assessment, incorporating physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of individual practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader healthcare infrastructure. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the system, enabling informed decision-making and the identification of opportunities for improvement.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for Strattanville would be determined by a weighted average of these factors. The weighting assigned to each factor would reflect its relative importance in the overall care pathway. For example, the availability of early detection screening programs might be weighted more heavily than the availability of support groups. The specific methodology for calculating the score would need to be clearly defined and transparent.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in Strattanville, PA (ZIP Code 16258) requires a detailed understanding of the factors influencing lung cancer care. This includes access to primary care, the quality of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the broader healthcare infrastructure. A comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the system and identifying opportunities for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Strattanville and the surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed, interactive maps that can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.