16417, Girard, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16417, Girard, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.96 percent of the residents in 16417 has some form of health insurance. 39.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.69 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 16417 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,924 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16417. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,726 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 612 health care providers accessible to residents in 16417, Girard, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Girard, PA (ZIP Code 16417)**

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection and treatment within Girard, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16417). The focus is on primary care physicians (PCPs) as the initial point of contact for patients, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in managing the complexities of lung cancer. The ultimate goal is to provide an informed perspective on the healthcare landscape for individuals in Girard and surrounding areas.

Girard, a small town in Erie County, faces the typical challenges of a rural community regarding healthcare access. One of the most critical factors is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, generally, rural areas often experience a shortage of PCPs compared to urban centers. This means that residents in Girard might face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying early detection and intervention for lung cancer. This is a significant concern, given the importance of timely diagnosis in improving patient outcomes. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, also warrants consideration, as patients may need to travel outside of Girard for specialized care.

Examining the practices within the 16417 ZIP code, we must look at the types of services offered and their overall patient experience. Are practices accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for an appointment? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patients' schedules? These factors can greatly impact the accessibility of care. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, focusing on clear communication, comprehensive care coordination, and patient education, are more likely to provide a positive experience for individuals navigating the complexities of lung cancer.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by practices in Girard is crucial. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities. It can facilitate virtual check-ups, follow-up appointments, and even consultations with specialists. The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care and potentially lead to earlier detection of symptoms or complications related to lung cancer.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Practices that offer or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals are better equipped to support patients. These resources may include individual therapy, group support, and access to psychiatrists or counselors specializing in oncology. Addressing the mental health needs of patients is vital for their overall well-being and can positively impact their ability to cope with the disease and adhere to treatment plans.

Specific practices within Girard would be evaluated based on their demonstrated commitment to these factors. Practices that actively recruit and retain qualified PCPs, offer a range of services, embrace telemedicine, and prioritize mental health support are more likely to receive higher scores in this analysis. These practices would be considered “standout practices” and serve as models for improving healthcare delivery in the region. The presence of these practices could significantly enhance the overall healthcare landscape for lung cancer patients in Girard.

The quality of care also depends on the integration of technology. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals facilitate better communication and care coordination. EHRs allow physicians to access patient information quickly and efficiently, while patient portals empower individuals to manage their health information, schedule appointments, and communicate with their care teams. This technological integration can streamline the healthcare process and improve patient outcomes.

Beyond individual practices, the broader healthcare ecosystem in Girard plays a role. The availability of local hospitals, diagnostic centers, and specialized treatment facilities is essential. Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as CT scans and PET scans, is crucial for early detection and staging of lung cancer. The proximity of these facilities and the efficiency of their operations can significantly impact the patient experience.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Girard (ZIP Code 16417) is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It is not a single number but rather a nuanced assessment of the healthcare environment. It considers the availability of PCPs, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the broader healthcare infrastructure. The score is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Girard, highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

The Lung Cancer Score analysis for Girard is not just about identifying problems; it's about promoting solutions. By highlighting the areas where the healthcare system excels and the areas where it falls short, it can guide efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately, improve the outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer. This analysis aims to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Girard is a complex undertaking. The dynamic nature of healthcare, with evolving technologies, changing regulations, and the constant need for improvement, requires ongoing monitoring and assessment. The analysis presented here provides a snapshot of the current situation, offering insights and recommendations to inform future efforts.

For a visual representation of the healthcare resources in Girard, including the location of practices, hospitals, and other relevant facilities, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. These maps provide a dynamic and user-friendly way to visualize the healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in the area.