16403, Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16403, Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.00 percent of the residents in 16403 has some form of health insurance. 34.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.91 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 16403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,479 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16403. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 940 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 556 health care providers accessible to residents in 16403, Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania.

Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania, nestled in ZIP Code 16403, presents a unique landscape for healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer detection and primary care access. Analyzing the quality of care available requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, technological integration, and the presence of supportive resources. A "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, while not a formal metric, helps to assess the overall environment and identify areas of strength and weakness within the community.

The foundation of any strong healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Cambridge Springs, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The specific ratio in 16403 requires investigation. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, when combined with local hospital and practice information, can provide an initial estimate. This data should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician staffing and population demographics.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Standout practices in Cambridge Springs would ideally offer comprehensive services, including routine checkups, vaccinations, and screenings for common cancers, including lung cancer. These practices should also emphasize patient education, empowering individuals to understand their risk factors and make informed decisions about their health. The presence of certified nurse practitioners (CNPs) and physician assistants (PAs) can also enhance access, providing additional support to physicians and increasing the number of patients who can be served.

Early detection is crucial in improving lung cancer survival rates. This necessitates access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for individuals at high risk. The availability of these services locally, or within a reasonable distance, is a key indicator of healthcare quality. Practices should adhere to the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for lung cancer screening, recommending LDCT scans for individuals aged 50 to 80 with a 20 pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas like Cambridge Springs to access specialists and receive consultations without traveling long distances. This is particularly important for individuals with lung cancer, who may require frequent follow-up appointments and consultations with oncologists and pulmonologists. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and improved accessibility.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive healthcare system. Practices should ideally have integrated mental health services or readily available referrals to therapists, counselors, and support groups. These resources can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression associated with their diagnosis and treatment. The presence of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the presence of community resources. Partnerships between healthcare providers and local organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or the Lung Association, can provide valuable support and education to patients and their families. These organizations often offer programs such as smoking cessation classes, financial assistance, and access to support groups.

Assessing the Lung Cancer Score in Cambridge Springs also requires an examination of the local hospital's capabilities. The presence of a hospital with a dedicated oncology department, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced oncologists, is a major advantage. The hospital's ability to provide chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions is critical for treating lung cancer. Furthermore, the hospital's commitment to research and clinical trials can offer patients access to innovative treatments.

The availability of palliative care services is another important consideration. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, providing symptom management, emotional support, and spiritual care. These services can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, helping them to manage pain, nausea, and other symptoms associated with their disease and treatment.

To comprehensively analyze the Lung Cancer Score, one must also consider the insurance landscape. The availability of affordable health insurance is essential for ensuring that all residents of Cambridge Springs can access the care they need. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers and the availability of financial assistance programs for those who are uninsured or underinsured are important factors.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania (16403) is a dynamic assessment. It is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including physician availability, technological adoption, mental health support, and community resources. Regular monitoring and analysis are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents have access to high-quality, comprehensive lung cancer care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Cambridge Springs, including the location of medical facilities, physician availability, and other relevant data, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing and understanding the healthcare environment, allowing for more informed decision-making.