17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 61.30 percent of the residents in 17030 has some form of health insurance. 38.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 33.44 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 17030 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 213 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 60 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17030. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 74 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,043 health care providers accessible to residents in 17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17030 and Primary Care Availability in Gratz

This analysis examines the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 17030 (potentially encompassing the town of Gratz, PA) through the lens of lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. We will assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), a critical entry point for early detection, and consider factors impacting overall patient care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment, particularly in relation to lung cancer care.

Gratz, Pennsylvania, with its rural setting, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of PCPs is a cornerstone of effective lung cancer screening and management. Early detection through screening, particularly for individuals at high risk (smokers, former smokers), significantly improves survival rates. Therefore, access to a PCP who can order and interpret screening tests (like low-dose CT scans) is paramount.

Physician-to-patient ratios in Gratz and the surrounding areas are a crucial indicator of access. A low ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Analyzing data on the number of PCPs, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners, relative to the population within ZIP code 17030 and its surrounding areas is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), identifying regions with inadequate access to healthcare professionals.

Identifying standout practices within the area is equally important. These practices may demonstrate exemplary patient care, innovative approaches to screening and treatment, and a commitment to patient education. Researching practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, offer smoking cessation support, and collaborate with specialists (oncologists, pulmonologists) can highlight best practices. Reviews from patients, as well as accreditations from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), can offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in improving access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially shortening wait times. The adoption of telemedicine for lung cancer screening follow-up, smoking cessation counseling, and mental health support can significantly improve patient outcomes. Examining which practices within 17030 and the surrounding areas offer telemedicine services and the types of services available is crucial.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of lung cancer care, but they are critical. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for supporting patients throughout their journey. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the area, including the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the integration of mental health care within primary care practices, is a vital component of this analysis.

Specific examples of practices and services within 17030 are difficult to provide without specific data sources. However, a thorough analysis would involve identifying the names and locations of all PCPs in the area. The analysis would then delve into the services offered by each practice, including: lung cancer screening protocols (e.g., adherence to USPSTF guidelines), smoking cessation programs, and telemedicine capabilities. Information on the practice’s affiliation with hospitals and cancer centers would also be collected.

Furthermore, the analysis would investigate the availability of mental health resources. This includes identifying mental health professionals in the area, assessing their specialties, and determining whether they accept the same insurance plans as the PCPs. The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting would be a key factor.

The analysis would also consider the demographics of the population served by the PCPs. This includes factors like age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of smoking. Understanding the patient population helps to tailor healthcare services to meet their specific needs.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape within ZIP code 17030 and Gratz requires a multi-faceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and analyzing mental health resources are all critical components of a comprehensive analysis. This assessment helps to identify gaps in care, highlight areas for improvement, and ultimately, improve the lives of patients at risk for, or affected by, lung cancer.

For a detailed, interactive map visualizing healthcare resources in the 17030 ZIP code and Gratz, Pennsylvania, including physician locations, practice specializations, and available services, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Their data-driven visualizations can provide invaluable insights into the healthcare landscape.