16440, Venango, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16440, Venango, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.27 percent of the residents in 16440 has some form of health insurance. 45.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.55 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 16440 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 173 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16440. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 397 health care providers accessible to residents in 16440, Venango, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: A Venango County Analysis (ZIP Code 16440)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians in ZIP Code 16440 (Oil City, PA) and evaluates primary care availability within Venango County, Pennsylvania. The score considers factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This information is intended to inform residents and healthcare providers about the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape concerning lung cancer care.

Venango County, like many rural areas, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. These challenges can significantly impact a patient's journey from initial symptoms to diagnosis and treatment. The Lung Cancer Score attempts to quantify these challenges and highlight areas for improvement.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care:**

A crucial element in the Lung Cancer Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced preventative care, and potentially later-stage lung cancer diagnoses. In ZIP Code 16440, and indeed across Venango County, the physician-to-patient ratio is a significant area of concern. The county's demographics, including an aging population and a history of industrial exposure, increase the risk profile for lung cancer. The limited availability of PCPs can exacerbate these risks.

Analyzing the availability of PCPs involves more than just counting the number of doctors. It also considers factors like insurance acceptance, hours of operation, and the capacity to accept new patients. Practices that are consistently open, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and are actively accepting new patients will receive a higher score in this category. The overall availability of PCPs directly impacts the timeliness of screenings, diagnostic tests, and referrals to specialists, all critical factors in lung cancer outcomes.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices is crucial to the Lung Cancer Score. These practices are defined by their commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care, particularly regarding lung cancer prevention and early detection. This includes proactive screening programs, such as promoting low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. The score considers whether practices adhere to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for lung cancer screening.

Furthermore, standout practices often incorporate evidence-based practices into their care models. This includes patient education about smoking cessation, the dangers of radon exposure, and other risk factors. They also facilitate seamless referrals to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists when necessary. Practices that have a demonstrated history of patient satisfaction and positive outcomes will receive a higher score. This analysis will consider publicly available data such as patient reviews and practice accreditations.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine offers a valuable tool to improve healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Venango County. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the extent to which practices in ZIP Code 16440 have adopted telemedicine technologies. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and secure online portals for patient communication.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, allowing for remote follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The ability to participate in virtual support groups and educational sessions can also improve patient outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and have a user-friendly platform for patients will receive a higher score.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of mental health resources and support services for patients within the primary care setting or through referrals. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups.

Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns, offer counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive a higher score. The ability to address the emotional needs of patients can significantly improve their quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. Mental health support is an integral part of comprehensive lung cancer care.

**Specific Considerations for ZIP Code 16440:**

Within ZIP Code 16440, the Lung Cancer Score will consider specific factors related to the local healthcare landscape. This includes the proximity to larger medical centers, the availability of specialized lung cancer treatment options, and the presence of community health initiatives focused on lung cancer prevention and awareness. The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access within the community.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for primary care in ZIP Code 16440 and Venango County provides a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of care for individuals at risk of or affected by lung cancer. By considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, the score offers a comprehensive assessment of the local healthcare environment.

This analysis aims to highlight areas of strength and identify opportunities for improvement. The goal is to empower residents and healthcare providers to work together to improve lung cancer outcomes in the community. Understanding the local landscape is the first step in improving the quality of care for patients.

For a visual representation of the data and a detailed mapping of healthcare resources in Venango County, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data and understanding the geographic distribution of resources.