16416, Garland, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16416, Garland, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16416 has some form of health insurance. 59.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.81 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 16416 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 34 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16416. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 99 health care providers accessible to residents in 16416, Garland, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Garland, PA (ZIP Code 16416) & Primary Care Analysis

Analyzing healthcare resources within a specific ZIP code and evaluating their capacity to address a complex disease like lung cancer requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on Garland, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16416), examining the availability of primary care physicians, their preparedness to address lung cancer risk factors and early detection, and the overall healthcare landscape. We will then attempt to quantify a "Lung Cancer Score" based on these factors. The score, however, is a conceptual tool, not a definitive medical judgment.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in robust primary care. This is the first line of defense, where patients receive preventative care, screenings, and referrals. In Garland, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Publicly available data, like that from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, can provide estimates. However, the exact number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 16416 ZIP code is essential. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score. Conversely, a higher ratio, suggesting greater access, would improve the score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are the available physicians up-to-date on lung cancer screening guidelines, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, those with a family history)? Do they routinely offer or recommend low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients? The implementation of these practices is a crucial element in the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings will receive a higher rating.

Standout practices within the Garland area would significantly influence the score. Identifying clinics or individual physicians known for their commitment to preventative care, patient education, and early detection efforts is vital. These practices might have dedicated staff for patient outreach, provide smoking cessation programs, or collaborate with specialists to streamline referrals. Their existence and operational efficiency would serve as a positive influence on the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is another factor. The ability for patients to consult with their primary care physicians remotely, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and initial consultations, can improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas like Garland. Practices that embrace telemedicine and offer virtual appointments will be viewed favorably, potentially increasing their Lung Cancer Score contribution.

Mental health resources play a significant role in the context of lung cancer. A diagnosis of lung cancer, or even the fear of the disease, can be incredibly stressful. Patients need access to mental health support to cope with the emotional and psychological challenges. The availability of therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists within the community, or through referral networks, is an important consideration. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would contribute positively to the score. The lack of such resources would negatively affect the score.

The Lung Cancer Score should also reflect the presence of ancillary services. Easy access to diagnostic imaging facilities (CT scans, X-rays), laboratories for blood work, and pharmacies is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The proximity and accessibility of these services within or near the 16416 ZIP code would influence the score.

The overall healthcare infrastructure in Garland, including the presence of hospitals or specialized cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance, is a key consideration. The ability to receive prompt and comprehensive care, including access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists, is critical for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The closer the access to these resources, the higher the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a single, definitive number. It is a composite assessment based on several factors. The score can be represented on a scale, perhaps from 1 to 100, with higher scores indicating a more favorable environment for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The specific weighting of each factor would depend on its perceived importance. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted at 15%, screening practices at 20%, telemedicine adoption at 10%, mental health resources at 15%, and access to specialists at 20%.

The final score would be a reflection of the healthcare landscape in Garland, Pennsylvania. It would provide a snapshot of the strengths and weaknesses of the system, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. The score could be used by healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to identify gaps in care and develop strategies to improve the health outcomes of residents in the 16416 ZIP code.

This analysis, however, is only a starting point. A comprehensive assessment would require detailed data collection, including surveys of primary care physicians, interviews with patients, and analysis of healthcare utilization data. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the resources available to address lung cancer and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize this data and explore the healthcare landscape of Garland, PA, and other areas, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data analysis. Discover how CartoChrome maps can help you visualize physician locations, access to healthcare facilities, and demographic data to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.