16421, Harborcreek, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16421, Harborcreek, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.02 percent of the residents in 16421 has some form of health insurance. 43.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.68 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 16421 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 545 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16421. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 513 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 507 health care providers accessible to residents in 16421, Harborcreek, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Harborcreek, PA (ZIP Code 16421)

This analysis examines the landscape of primary care and associated resources within Harborcreek, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16421), with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer care. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the accessibility, quality, and support systems available to residents, ultimately assigning a Lung Cancer Score reflecting the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem in this area.

Harborcreek, like many rural or suburban communities, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery. These include potential limitations in specialist availability, transportation difficulties for patients, and the need for robust primary care infrastructure to act as the initial point of contact and care coordination. The presence of these factors will significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score.

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

A fundamental aspect of assessing lung cancer care readiness is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Harborcreek, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. Data analysis is necessary to determine the actual ratio, comparing the number of active PCPs practicing within the ZIP code to the estimated population. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) can indicate potential access issues, longer wait times for appointments, and increased pressure on existing healthcare resources. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better accessibility.

Furthermore, the types of primary care practices present are important. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or larger, multi-specialty clinics? Larger practices often have the advantage of offering a wider range of services, including on-site laboratory testing, X-ray capabilities, and potentially, easier access to specialists within the same network. The presence of these features will positively influence the Lung Cancer Score.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout primary care practices in Harborcreek is essential. This involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, accreditations (e.g., NCQA recognition), and the adoption of best practices in preventive care. Practices that actively screen for lung cancer risk factors (smoking history, family history) and offer proactive referrals for screenings (low-dose CT scans) demonstrate a commitment to early detection, a crucial element in improving lung cancer survival rates.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key indicator. EHRs facilitate better care coordination, allowing PCPs to easily share patient information with specialists, track test results, and manage medication regimens. Practices with robust EHR systems are likely to provide more efficient and coordinated care, positively impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The availability of telemedicine services in Harborcreek can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in remote areas. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients, helping to bridge geographical barriers.

The types of telemedicine services offered are also important. Are virtual consultations available for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, or mental health support? The ability to conduct virtual lung cancer screenings or provide educational resources via telemedicine would significantly enhance the Lung Cancer Score.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health resources and support services is therefore critical. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and palliative care specialists. These resources help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and the emotional burden of their illness, improving their overall quality of life.

The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is particularly beneficial. This can involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or the use of telehealth for mental health consultations. The presence of these integrated services will contribute significantly to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

**Specialist Access and Referral Networks:**

While this analysis focuses on primary care, the availability of specialists is also important. The proximity and accessibility of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists are critical for timely diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. The presence of strong referral networks between primary care practices and these specialists is crucial for ensuring seamless care coordination.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed above, a Lung Cancer Score for Harborcreek, PA (ZIP Code 16421) can be assigned. This score will reflect the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem in this area, considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and specialist access.

This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Harborcreek. Further research and data collection are necessary to provide a more comprehensive and accurate assessment.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare resources in Harborcreek, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist clinics, and hospitals, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare services, helping residents make informed decisions about their care.