16656, Irvona, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16656, Irvona, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.27 percent of the residents in 16656 has some form of health insurance. 44.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.73 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 16656 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 228 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16656. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 244 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 303 health care providers accessible to residents in 16656, Irvona, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Irvona, PA (ZIP Code 16656)

Analyzing healthcare resources within Irvona, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16656) requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll assess the availability of primary care physicians, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis, offering insights into the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection is critical, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates better access to care. In Irvona, this ratio needs careful scrutiny. Publicly available data, such as that from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, can be used to determine the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the total population. This information will provide a baseline understanding of access. A high ratio (e.g., a large number of patients per physician) might indicate potential challenges in scheduling appointments, receiving timely care, and building strong patient-physician relationships, all of which are vital for lung cancer screening and management.

Identifying standout practices is another crucial step. This involves researching the quality of care offered by local medical offices. This includes evaluating factors such as the availability of comprehensive services, the use of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening (such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and the presence of dedicated patient support programs. Practices with a demonstrable commitment to preventive care, including smoking cessation programs and patient education initiatives, would score favorably. Reviewing online patient testimonials and ratings, while not always definitive, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences and satisfaction levels. Additionally, researching if any practices are affiliated with larger healthcare systems or hospitals that specialize in cancer care would be beneficial.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Irvona. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, especially pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can facilitate timely access to expert opinions and treatment plans. The ability to conduct follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and manage chronic conditions remotely can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients. The availability of telemedicine also reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for appointments, which can be a major burden, especially for those undergoing treatment.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical component of a comprehensive lung cancer care strategy. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either in-house or through referrals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The availability of these resources can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological effects of their illness, improving their overall well-being and treatment outcomes. Screening for mental health issues as part of routine care would be considered a best practice.

Evaluating the availability of resources for smoking cessation is also vital. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is a crucial aspect of preventive care. Practices that offer smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, are essential. These programs can significantly increase the chances of successful quitting, reducing the risk of lung cancer and improving overall health.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Irvona (16656) would be a composite score, reflecting the availability and quality of the above-mentioned factors. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a greater emphasis on preventive measures, and a more comprehensive approach to patient well-being.

To calculate this score, we would need to gather data on physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices (based on factors like screening protocols, patient support programs, and affiliations), telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health and smoking cessation resources. Each factor would be assigned a weighted value, and the overall score would be calculated based on the performance of local healthcare providers in each area.

The final score would be presented with a clear explanation of the methodology used and the specific factors considered. The score would be accompanied by recommendations for improving the healthcare landscape in Irvona, such as suggestions for increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, and promoting mental health integration.

This analysis is a starting point. A comprehensive assessment would require a deeper dive into specific practice details, patient feedback, and local healthcare trends. The information presented here provides a framework for understanding the key factors that influence lung cancer care in Irvona, PA, and offers a basis for further investigation and improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Irvona and surrounding areas, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can help you visualize physician locations, hospital networks, and other relevant data points, providing a valuable tool for assessing access to care and making informed healthcare decisions.