16821, Allport, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16821, Allport, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.72 percent of the residents in 16821 has some form of health insurance. 42.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.33 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 16821 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16821. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 30 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,024 health care providers accessible to residents in 16821, Allport, Pennsylvania.

This analysis explores the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 16821 (State College, PA) and assesses primary care availability in Allport, PA, focusing on factors relevant to patient outcomes. We’ll examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive approach to lung cancer management. While a formal "Lung Cancer Score" is not a standardized metric, this analysis provides a qualitative assessment based on available data and publicly accessible information.

The initial assessment focuses on ZIP code 16821, a region centered around State College, home to Penn State University. The presence of a major university and its associated medical facilities significantly impacts the healthcare environment. The physician-to-patient ratio in this area is likely more favorable than in more rural settings, offering patients greater access to specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The presence of a large healthcare system, such as Mount Nittany Health, suggests a higher concentration of specialized equipment and advanced treatment options, critical for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Standout practices within 16821 are likely those affiliated with Mount Nittany Health. These facilities often boast a multidisciplinary approach, essential for lung cancer care. This means the patient benefits from a team of specialists – pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists – working collaboratively to develop and implement personalized treatment plans. These practices are also more likely to participate in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge therapies and research opportunities.

Telemedicine adoption in 16821, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, has likely increased. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for lung cancer patients, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care. It reduces the need for frequent travel, which can be challenging for patients experiencing fatigue, shortness of breath, or other treatment-related side effects. Telemedicine also expands access to specialists, especially for those living in more remote areas within the ZIP code.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of university-affiliated mental health resources in the area can also be a significant advantage.

Shifting our focus to Allport, PA, a more rural community, the landscape of primary care availability presents a different picture. Allport likely faces challenges in accessing healthcare resources compared to a more urban center like State College. Physician-to-patient ratios are likely less favorable, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and fewer options for primary care providers. This scarcity of primary care physicians can impact early detection of lung cancer, as they often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, in Allport is likely limited. Patients may need to travel to larger regional centers, such as State College, for specialized care. This travel burden can be a significant obstacle for patients, particularly those with limited mobility or financial resources. The absence of a large healthcare system means fewer resources and less access to advanced treatment options.

Telemedicine adoption in Allport may be a crucial tool for bridging the gap in access to care. Primary care physicians can utilize telemedicine to consult with specialists, provide remote monitoring, and offer virtual follow-up appointments. This can help to mitigate some of the challenges associated with geographic isolation.

Mental health resources in Allport may also be more limited. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, may be lower than in more populated areas. This can exacerbate the emotional challenges faced by lung cancer patients and their families. Integration of mental health services into primary care practices or partnerships with community mental health organizations are essential for ensuring adequate support.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape for lung cancer care varies significantly between State College (16821) and Allport. While State College benefits from a higher concentration of resources, Allport faces challenges related to access and availability. Both areas would benefit from increased telemedicine adoption, improved integration of mental health services, and efforts to improve primary care availability.

To visualize these healthcare access differences and explore the geographical distribution of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the availability of healthcare providers, the location of treatment centers, and the areas with the greatest need for improved access to care.