17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.98 percent of the residents in 17023 has some form of health insurance. 30.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.80 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 17023 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 798 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17023. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 505 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,135 health care providers accessible to residents in 17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Elizabethville, PA (ZIP Code 17023)**

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Elizabethville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17023), focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer care, particularly primary care availability and associated resources. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements influencing patient outcomes. This assessment is designed to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, ultimately informing residents and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and a readily accessible primary care physician (PCP) is the first line of defense. In Elizabethville, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical first step. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the U.S. Census Bureau, and publicly available physician directories will be cross-referenced to determine the number of PCPs practicing within the 17023 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This ratio provides a baseline understanding of access to care. A low ratio (i.e., a high number of patients per physician) suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent care, which can negatively impact lung cancer screening and diagnosis. Conversely, a favorable ratio indicates greater accessibility.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices in Elizabethville are important. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? These factors directly influence a patient's ability to seek care when needed. Additionally, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is a critical component of modern healthcare. Practices with well-integrated EHRs can facilitate better communication between providers, improve care coordination, and streamline the referral process, all of which are beneficial in managing a complex disease like lung cancer. The presence of certified patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs) within the area is also a positive indicator. PCMHs emphasize a team-based approach to care, focusing on patient needs and preventative services.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to conduct virtual consultations can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Elizabethville. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, reducing the need for frequent travel. The availability of telemedicine services, including the types of platforms used and the range of services offered, will be assessed. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially offer better support to patients, especially those who may be experiencing mobility issues or transportation challenges.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a vital component of a comprehensive care plan. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the 17023 ZIP code and the surrounding communities. The proximity of these resources to primary care practices and hospitals is also relevant. Integrated mental health services, where mental health professionals are embedded within primary care practices, are particularly beneficial. This integration streamlines access to care and reduces the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, will also be evaluated. These groups provide a valuable forum for patients and their families to share experiences and offer emotional support.

Identifying "standout practices" is a crucial aspect of this analysis. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care. This assessment will consider factors such as: the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment; the availability of smoking cessation programs; the practice's participation in clinical trials; and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that have achieved recognition for their quality of care, such as those accredited by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), will be highlighted. These practices often serve as models for other providers in the area.

The analysis will also consider the presence of local hospitals and cancer centers. The availability of specialized services, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is essential for comprehensive lung cancer care. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices is important for timely referrals and care coordination. The hospital's facilities, including diagnostic imaging capabilities (e.g., CT scans, PET scans) and treatment options (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation therapy), will also be assessed.

The overall Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, considering all the factors discussed above. It will provide a nuanced assessment of the healthcare landscape in Elizabethville, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. The score will not only reflect the availability of resources but also the quality of care provided. This comprehensive assessment is intended to provide a clear picture of the healthcare environment for residents and healthcare providers alike.

The final score will be presented with an explanation of the methodology used and the weight assigned to each factor. The score will be accompanied by recommendations for improvement, focusing on areas where the healthcare system can be strengthened. This may include suggestions for increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, improving access to mental health resources, and promoting the adoption of evidence-based practices. The goal is to provide actionable insights that can lead to improved patient outcomes.

The data collected for this analysis will be sourced from a variety of sources, including publicly available data from government agencies, physician directories, hospital websites, and healthcare provider websites. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys will also be consulted. The analysis will be conducted using a rigorous methodology to ensure accuracy and reliability. The resulting Lung Cancer Score will be a valuable tool for residents of Elizabethville, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The availability of resources and the quality of care can change over time. It is important to regularly monitor and evaluate the healthcare system to ensure that patients have access to the best possible care. This Lung Cancer Score analysis is a snapshot in time, but it provides a valuable starting point for ongoing improvement efforts.

The information gleaned from this analysis can be further explored and visualized using advanced mapping tools. Consider leveraging the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elizabethville and surrounding areas.