16372, Clintonville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16372, Clintonville, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.33 percent of the residents in 16372 has some form of health insurance. 36.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.31 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 16372 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16372. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 75 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 644 health care providers accessible to residents in 16372, Clintonville, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Clintonville, PA (ZIP Code 16372) – A Comprehensive Analysis

This analysis evaluates the availability of resources and the overall healthcare landscape in Clintonville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16372), focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The goal is to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, considering primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, ultimately informing residents and potential patients about the strengths and weaknesses of their local healthcare ecosystem.

Clintonville, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The relative isolation can impact the availability of specialized medical services, including those directly related to lung cancer care. This analysis attempts to navigate these complexities, offering a realistic perspective.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are critical. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within and immediately surrounding ZIP code 16372. Data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards, when aggregated, can provide an estimate of the physician-to-patient ratio.

A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, raises concerns. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, decreased opportunities for preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis. The availability of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can also provide primary care services, must also be considered. Their presence can help mitigate the impact of a lower physician-to-patient ratio, increasing access to care.

The geographic distribution of primary care practices within and around Clintonville is also important. Are the practices clustered in one area, potentially creating access challenges for residents in more remote parts of the ZIP code? Transportation limitations, particularly for elderly or disabled individuals, can exacerbate these issues. Public transportation options, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of home healthcare services all contribute to overall accessibility.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions:**

Identifying “standout practices” involves evaluating several factors. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including proactive lung cancer screening programs for high-risk individuals (e.g., smokers and former smokers), are highly valued. These practices often utilize evidence-based guidelines and offer comprehensive patient education.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key indicator. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between different healthcare providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of errors. Practices that actively participate in regional or national quality improvement initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and patient safety, are also considered exemplary.

The responsiveness of a practice to patient needs, including ease of appointment scheduling, communication with patients, and the availability of after-hours care, is essential. Patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience, offering a qualitative perspective on the quality of care provided.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a significant opportunity to improve healthcare access in rural areas like Clintonville. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments can reduce the need for patients to travel long distances, saving time and money.

The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices and specialists in the area is a crucial factor. Are physicians utilizing telehealth platforms for routine check-ups, medication management, and specialist consultations? The availability of reliable internet access in the community is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Telemedicine can also play a vital role in lung cancer care. Virtual consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists can facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment planning. Remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment can help manage side effects and improve adherence to treatment regimens.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on mental health. The emotional toll of the disease, combined with the physical side effects of treatment, can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.

The availability of mental health resources in Clintonville is therefore a critical component of the “Lung Cancer Score.” Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists practicing in the area? Do primary care practices have integrated mental health services, allowing for seamless referrals and coordinated care?

Support groups for lung cancer patients and their families can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. The presence of these resources, along with access to mental health professionals, significantly enhances the overall quality of care and improves patient outcomes.

**The “Lung Cancer Score” Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, the “Lung Cancer Score” for Clintonville (ZIP code 16372) would be determined by a composite analysis. The score would reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

This assessment would not only provide a numerical score but also include a narrative explanation, detailing the specific challenges and opportunities. It would identify any standout practices and highlight areas where residents may face difficulties accessing care.

The score is not a static measurement; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of mental health resources.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape in Clintonville, like in many rural communities, presents both challenges and opportunities. While the community may face limitations in specialist availability, the presence of dedicated primary care physicians, the potential for telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all crucial factors in determining the overall quality of care.

A comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” analysis, incorporating all the factors discussed, is essential for residents and potential patients. It allows for an informed assessment of the local healthcare system, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

**Take the next step towards understanding the healthcare landscape in Clintonville. Explore the detailed mapping of healthcare providers, access points, and resource availability using CartoChrome maps. Click here to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of your community's healthcare resources.**