16436, Spring Creek, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16436, Spring Creek, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.88 percent of the residents in 16436 has some form of health insurance. 65.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.31 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 16436 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 206 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16436. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 225 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 135 health care providers accessible to residents in 16436, Spring Creek, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16436 and Primary Care in Spring Creek

This analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 16436, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, particularly within the context of primary care availability in the Spring Creek area. The goal is to assess the accessibility and quality of care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer, considering physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The analysis will not use lists.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care lies in early detection and comprehensive management. This necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure capable of providing preventative screenings, timely referrals to specialists, and ongoing support throughout the treatment journey. Within ZIP code 16436, the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) are critical. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges, such as longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care. Conversely, a higher ratio, coupled with efficient appointment scheduling systems, suggests a more accessible healthcare environment.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio requires analyzing the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population size. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can be used to estimate this ratio. Further investigation is needed to determine the actual number of PCPs in the specific Spring Creek area, which might be a subset of the larger ZIP code. This includes identifying the types of practices, such as solo practices, group practices, or those affiliated with larger healthcare systems. The organizational structure of these practices significantly impacts their capacity to provide comprehensive care.

Standout practices within the region often demonstrate several key characteristics. These include a commitment to preventative care, such as actively promoting lung cancer screenings for eligible patients, particularly those with a history of smoking or other risk factors. They also emphasize patient education, providing resources and support to help individuals understand their risk, recognize symptoms, and make informed decisions about their health. Furthermore, effective practices often employ a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating with specialists such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The utilization of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer greater convenience and reduce the barriers to accessing specialized care. The availability of telehealth options can also enhance communication between patients and their healthcare providers, facilitating better management of chronic conditions and providing emotional support.

The availability of mental health resources is of paramount importance. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health professionals, are better equipped to support patients' overall well-being. This can include offering counseling, support groups, and access to psychiatric care when needed. The integration of mental health services is a crucial component of comprehensive lung cancer care.

The quality of care also depends on the resources available at local hospitals and clinics. These facilities should be equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scanners for lung cancer screening, and offer access to advanced treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The proximity of these facilities and the ease of access to these services are essential for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Further investigation should also include examining the insurance coverage landscape in the area. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, is crucial for ensuring that patients can access the care they need. Practices that are in-network with a wide range of insurance providers can help to minimize financial barriers to care.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served by the healthcare providers in ZIP code 16436. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity can influence health outcomes and access to care. Understanding these demographics can help to identify potential disparities in care and tailor interventions to address the specific needs of the community.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in ZIP code 16436, particularly in the Spring Creek area, requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources and hospital resources. A comprehensive analysis will help to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 16436, including physician locations, practice types, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their detailed maps can provide valuable insights and aid in navigating the healthcare system.