16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.59 percent of the residents in 16729 has some form of health insurance. 46.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.76 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 16729 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 162 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16729. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 120 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 397 health care providers accessible to residents in 16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Duke Center, PA (ZIP Code 16729)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within and around Duke Center, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16729) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors: the availability and quality of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. These elements, collectively, contribute to a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the overall preparedness of the community to address this serious disease. While a precise numerical score is impossible without granular data, this analysis provides a qualitative assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection is paramount. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Duke Center, and the broader ZIP code 16729 area, assessing primary care availability is crucial. This involves examining the number of PCPs actively practicing, the average wait times for appointments, and the acceptance of new patients. Areas with limited primary care access may hinder timely diagnosis, potentially leading to poorer outcomes for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer. Furthermore, the quality of primary care matters. PCPs should be knowledgeable about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and referral pathways to specialists.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can create bottlenecks, delaying appointments and potentially impacting the speed with which patients receive necessary diagnostic tests and specialist consultations. Researching the physician-to-patient ratio within 16729, specifically for PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists, provides insight into the potential for delays in care. Furthermore, it is important to consider the distribution of these specialists. Are they concentrated in a central location, or are they dispersed throughout the community, ensuring equitable access for all residents?

Identifying standout medical practices within the area is vital. These practices may demonstrate excellence in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Researching local hospitals and clinics, and examining their accreditations, patient outcomes, and patient satisfaction scores, can reveal which practices are leading the way in lung cancer care. This includes looking for practices that offer low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk individuals, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Furthermore, investigating the availability of multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, is essential. The coordination of care among these specialists significantly improves patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Duke Center. The adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who may face geographical barriers or mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational programs. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption in 16729, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, is essential. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve access to specialists and follow-up care, ultimately enhancing the patient experience.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns throughout their journey. Investigating the availability of mental health services within the community, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial. Assessing the integration of mental health services into the cancer care pathway, such as offering counseling during treatment or providing access to support groups, is also important. This integrated approach can improve the overall well-being of patients.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Duke Center (ZIP code 16729) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Each of these factors contributes to the overall preparedness of the community to address lung cancer effectively. While this analysis provides a qualitative assessment, further research and data collection are needed to develop a more precise and quantitative score. This information is crucial for improving healthcare access, quality, and outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer in this area.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Duke Center, PA, and the surrounding areas, including the distribution of healthcare providers, access to care, and demographic information, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing complex healthcare data, helping you to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in your community.