16263, Yatesboro, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16263, Yatesboro, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.87 percent of the residents in 16263 has some form of health insurance. 53.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.68 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 16263 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16263. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 55 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 122 health care providers accessible to residents in 16263, Yatesboro, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Yatesboro, PA (ZIP Code 16263) – An Analysis

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Yatesboro, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16263) through the lens of lung cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in the early detection, treatment, and overall support of individuals facing this devastating disease. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement within the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact, playing a critical role in screening, early detection, and referral. Assessing primary care availability in Yatesboro involves considering the number of PCPs, their geographic distribution, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times and potentially delayed diagnosis. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility and a higher likelihood of timely intervention. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within the 16263 ZIP code is essential to accurately gauge this aspect of the score. This data would need to be gathered from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, or through local healthcare directories.

Beyond sheer numbers, the geographic distribution of PCPs is crucial. Yatesboro, being a primarily rural area, may face challenges related to accessibility. Are PCPs concentrated in a central location, or are they dispersed throughout the community? Are there adequate transportation options for patients to reach these practices? The proximity of primary care facilities to the population base significantly impacts the likelihood of individuals seeking preventative care, including lung cancer screenings.

The presence of standout practices within the area can significantly elevate the Lung Cancer Score. These practices are identified by their commitment to excellence in areas like preventative care, patient education, and the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and management. These practices may have implemented innovative programs, such as dedicated lung cancer screening protocols, patient navigation services, or smoking cessation programs. Identifying these practices requires research into local healthcare providers, reviewing patient testimonials, and potentially consulting with healthcare professionals in the region.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, particularly in a rural area like Yatesboro, can be a game-changer. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, provide access to educational resources, and offer ongoing support for patients undergoing treatment. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the technology used, is a significant indicator of the Lung Cancer Score. Research into the availability of telehealth options within the 16263 ZIP code is essential. This includes identifying the providers offering telehealth services, the types of services offered, and the technologies used.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and other resources is essential for managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The Lung Cancer Score should reflect the availability and accessibility of these resources within the community. This involves assessing the number of mental health professionals in the area, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and oncology centers.

The Lung Cancer Score itself is a composite measure, reflecting the collective strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in Yatesboro. It is not a simple numerical value but a nuanced assessment based on the factors discussed above. The score would be categorized, perhaps on a scale of Poor, Fair, Good, or Excellent. The final score would be accompanied by a detailed explanation, highlighting the specific strengths and weaknesses of the area.

For example, a "Good" score might indicate a reasonable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of a few standout practices with strong preventative care programs, some telemedicine adoption, and the availability of limited mental health resources. A "Poor" score, on the other hand, might reflect a low physician-to-patient ratio, a lack of specialized lung cancer care, minimal telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health resources.

Further research would need to be conducted to gather the necessary data. This would involve contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing publicly available data from government agencies and healthcare organizations, and potentially conducting interviews with healthcare professionals and community members. This data collection is crucial for creating an accurate and meaningful Lung Cancer Score.

The analysis should also consider the specific challenges faced by the population of Yatesboro. This includes factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and the prevalence of smoking. These factors can significantly impact the risk of lung cancer and the ability of individuals to access timely and effective care.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score is a tool for assessing the quality of lung cancer care in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania. It is intended to provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, the score can inform efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately, improve outcomes for individuals facing this devastating disease.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Yatesboro and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the Lung Cancer Score, consider exploring the power of interactive mapping. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and insightful representation of the data, allowing you to visualize physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant information in a user-friendly format. **Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to enhance your understanding of the healthcare landscape in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, and discover how data visualization can empower you to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your community.**