17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.97 percent of the residents in 17048 has some form of health insurance. 34.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.28 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 17048 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 988 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17048. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 650 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,112 health care providers accessible to residents in 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17048 & Lykens Primary Care

This analysis provides a nuanced perspective on the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 17048 (Lykens, PA) and its surrounding areas, specifically focusing on primary care access and resources relevant to lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. The goal is to evaluate the overall “Lung Cancer Score” for residents, considering factors beyond just the presence of medical professionals. This score implicitly reflects the likelihood of early detection, effective management, and overall patient well-being.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score lies in robust primary care. In Lykens, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant. Physician-to-patient ratios are the first crucial data point. National averages serve as a benchmark. If Lykens falls significantly below the national average, the score suffers. This scarcity necessitates patients traveling further, potentially delaying crucial preventative screenings or follow-up appointments, which are vital for lung cancer detection.

Standout practices, if any, within the 17048 ZIP code or in close proximity, become pivotal. These practices are evaluated on several criteria. Do they actively promote lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, those with a family history)? Are they equipped with, or have ready access to, advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scans? The presence of a dedicated nurse navigator or care coordinator, who can guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, significantly boosts the score. A practice demonstrating proactive patient education regarding smoking cessation and healthy lifestyle choices also adds considerable value.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in bolstering the Lung Cancer Score, especially in rural areas like Lykens. Telemedicine offers increased access to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, and managing chronic conditions. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine, especially for lung cancer-related consultations, will receive a higher score. The ease of access to virtual appointments can significantly improve patient compliance with treatment plans and monitoring schedules.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial components of a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score. A cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals (psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists) within the local healthcare system or through readily accessible referral networks is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans, either directly or through partnerships, will contribute positively to the overall score. This includes access to support groups, counseling services, and resources for managing anxiety and depression.

The quality of local hospitals and specialist access is also vital. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with a dedicated oncology department and experienced pulmonologists is essential. The hospital's ability to perform advanced procedures, such as minimally invasive surgery and radiation therapy, directly impacts the score. The proximity of these facilities to Lykens and the ease of patient transport are crucial factors. The score is also influenced by the hospital's commitment to research and clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

Beyond the immediate medical infrastructure, community resources also influence the Lung Cancer Score. The availability of smoking cessation programs, support groups for cancer survivors, and access to healthy food options are all important. The presence of community health initiatives that promote lung cancer awareness and early detection contributes positively. A community that actively supports its residents' health and well-being will naturally foster a higher overall score.

Specific practices within the 17048 ZIP code should be evaluated individually. Are they accepting new patients? What are their patient satisfaction ratings? Do they have a strong online presence with accessible information about their services and providers? Do they actively participate in community outreach programs related to lung cancer prevention? These are all factors that contribute to a practice's individual score and, consequently, the overall Lung Cancer Score for the area.

The score is not static. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The arrival of new physicians, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of community resources can all impact the score. Likewise, the closure of a practice or a reduction in services would negatively affect it. The goal is to provide a dynamic assessment that reflects the reality of healthcare access and quality within the community.

To illustrate the practical application of this analysis, consider a hypothetical scenario. If Lykens exhibits a significantly lower-than-average physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with limited access to advanced diagnostic tools and a scarcity of mental health resources, the Lung Cancer Score will be negatively impacted. Conversely, if a standout practice actively promotes screening, utilizes telemedicine, and integrates mental health services, the score will improve. The presence of a well-equipped hospital and a strong network of community resources will further enhance the overall score.

This analysis emphasizes that the Lung Cancer Score is not simply a measure of the number of doctors in an area. It is a holistic assessment of the healthcare ecosystem, considering access, quality, and community support. It provides a valuable framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities related to lung cancer prevention and care in Lykens and the surrounding areas.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17048, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and make informed decisions about your healthcare.